The Ancient and Classical Studies major examines the language, literature, art, history, and culture of ancient societies, particularly those of ancient Greece and Rome. We do not merely study the relics of peoples and ideas long dead, for to a deep degree we have inherited from these ancient peoples the living, nourishing roots of the cultures we today claim as our own. As Bernard Knox, a contemporary classicist, has recently remarked, "We do not neglect the present, but realize that our main emphasis must fall on the great traditions of art, thought, and literature which have formed the minds and hearts of predecessors, and which, interpreted afresh in each generation, can bring us new understanding of ourselves and the world we live in."

In addition to introductory and intermediate language courses in both Ancient Greek and Classical Latin, we offer many courses in the literature, art, and culture of Greece, Rome, and other ancient societies. Our courses range from historical surveys of the ancient Mediterranean world and cross-cultural overviews of particular modes of thought and expression (such as Ancient Myths/Modern Meanings or Gender and Sexuality in the Ancient World) to very specific topics (such as Erotic Roman poetry, Greek Art History, or Pompeii). Most courses are available to students who have not studied Greek or Latin, but students of the languages are encouraged to find ways to bring their linguistic skills to course assignments.

In alternate years the Department offers a May Term in Greece. On this engaging program students study the art and archaeology of Greece at some of the most important historical sites of the region as they travel throughout the Greek mainland, the Peloponnese, and surrounding islands.