Department of Classics

Overview

The field of Classics involves all aspects of ancient Greek and Roman civilization: language, literature, history, art, archaeology, philosophy, religion, sociology, and economics. While the Greeks and Romans may seem remote from the world of today, they are close enough to shed light on many problems and concerns that are still felt by modern society. Even more important is the fact that these classical civilizations have provided the cultural foundations of the western world.

 

It is the objective of the Department of Classics to introduce students to the ancient world, and through it to reveal the core elements of human society and the universality of human nature. At the same time, the Department seeks to develop in its students an intellectual rigour, clarity in writing, breadth of view, and sense of balance that will serve them well in their future endeavours. The multidisciplinary character of the field and the broad context which it provides for study in other areas ensures that Classical Studies has an important place in the rigorous, liberal education that Mount Allison tries to offer its students.

 

 

The Department offers major and honours programs in Classical Studies, both of which provide a significant introduction to all areas of the discipline, including the languages. Minors in Greek and Latin are offered for students whose main interest is in the study of language; and the minor in Classical Studies may be constructed so as to emphasize ancient history, classical literature, or art and archaeology, depending on one's interests.