Classics
Classics is an interdisciplinary major. The study of the ancient world combines archaeology, philology, history, philosophy, and anthropology—among other disciplines. Classics is the name traditionally given to the study of ancient Greece and Rome from the Bronze Age to the early Middle Ages, but the Classics curriculum also includes opportunities to study diverse cultures around the ancient Mediterranean and Near East. The curriculum provides students with the opportunity to read ancient literature both in the original languages and in English translation, and to explore the life and culture of antiquity. Several courses examine the reception of antiquity and its influential role in shaping the modern world. Students also have opportunities to study abroad in Athens and Rome.
Pitzer Adviser: M. Berenfeld.
Requirements for the Major
Two options are available for the major:
- 1. Classical Languages and Literature
This option is designed for students who intend to study classical languages in depth. Students considering graduate school in Classics or Classical Archaeology (or related disciplines or languages) should select this option. - 2. Classical Studies
This option is designed for students seeking a comprehensive background in ancient cultures and who may anticipate pursuing careers in law, medicine, business, or other fields in which a liberal arts education and strong critical thinking skills are essential. A major in Classical Studies also complements material in a range of related fields (e.g., History, English, Philosophy, Humanities, Art History, and Archaeology) and provides preparation for students planning to do graduate work in those areas.
Classical Languages and Literature
To complete the option in Classical Languages, students are required to complete satisfactorily a total of ten courses in two languages chosen from Greek, Latin, and Classical Hebrew, plus the Senior Seminar (CLAS 190). Students must complete at least three courses in each of the two languages chosen. Up to three courses in Classical civilization, archaeology, art history, history, philosophy, or religion may be substituted for language courses if warranted by the student's program and if approved by the student's major adviser. A senior thesis may count as one of these three courses.
For students intending to pursue graduate study in Classics or Classical Archaeology, a command of both Greek and Latin is essential; reading competency in French, German, and/or Italian is strongly recommended.
Classical Studies
To complete the option in Classical Studies, students are required to complete satisfactorily at least ten courses, plus the Senior Seminar (CLAS 190). These ten courses must include:
- • At least three courses in Greek, Latin, or Classical Hebrew; at least one must be numbered 100 or above.
- • At least one course from among the following: Classics 60, 61; History 10; or equivalents approved by the major adviser.
- • The remaining courses will be chosen in consultation with the major adviser, and may be drawn from offerings in Classics and related subject fields. A senior thesis (Classics 191) may count as one of the remaining courses.
Minor in Classics: Students must satisfactorily complete a minimum of six Classics courses, including a sequence of three courses in Greek, Latin, or Classical Hebrew and three other courses that count toward a major in Classics. Normally, courses taken to satisfy the requirements of any other major or minor may not be used to satisfy the requirements for a minor in Classics.
AP Credit: One course credit toward graduation is awarded for scores of 4 or 5 on the Advanced Placement Examination in Latin (Vergil and Latin Literature).
Study Abroad: Pitzer College is a participating member of the Intercollegiate Classics Center in Rome. This Center, composed of students and faculty drawn from a limited group of liberal arts colleges, both public and private, with strong programs in the Classics, makes available to its members a junior year or semester abroad in Rome in Classical Studies. Students should consult with their advisers about additional study abroad programs for Classics.