Dan Davis (program director)

Classics is the study of the languages, literature, and culture of the ancient Greco-Roman world. Greek and Latin are fundamental languages for the study of European literature and civilization, as well as the development of modern languages. The timeless literature of the Greeks and Romans produced Homer, Sappho, Thucydides, Plato, Virgil, and St. Augustine, to name just a few. Greek and Roman civilization has also had an enormous influence on facets of modern culture from law and poetry to art and religion. At Luther, classics can also include the study of Biblical Greek.

At Luther, students may earn a minor in classical studies.

The study of classics is excellent preparation for any number of fields, including education, business, computer science, music, foreign language, theology, law, and medicine. Students with a background in classics often go on to pursue graduate studies in history, political science, classics, or archaeology.

A classical studies minor can combine the study of the Greek and Latin languages, along with thematic courses in classical civilization.

Required for a classical studies minor: Two foundation courses that cover both Greek and Roman history/culture (see lists below), plus three electives chosen from Classical Studies, ART 251, HIST 241, 242, MUS 244, and PHIL 200. Other non-language courses may apply with the permission of the department head. Students may also apply GRK 101, GRK 102, LAT 101, and/or LAT 102 to the minor for a maximum of two electives.

Greek History/Culture
CLAS 240: Classical Mythology
CLAS 250: Ancient World: Greece
CLAS 270: Archaeology of Ancient Greece
CLAS 299: Study Abroad Classics (Greece)

Roman History/Culture
CLAS 275: Archaeology of Ancient Rome
CLAS 299: Study Abroad Classics (Italy)
CLAS 330: Pompeii: Life and Death in a Roman City
HIST 241: Rome: Republic and Empire