American culture is profoundly rooted in classical civilization. Our literature, political system, art, language, values, and philosophy are all, in a sense, either developments from, improvements upon, or reactions to the legacy of the ancients. Christianity, too, was born and took shape in the classical world. If we understand the ancients, we better understand not only where we have come from, but who we are. Study of Classics sharpens one's ability to read accurately and perceptively; to use and respond to language and ideas; to understand how to express oneself, convince others, and even think. These are skills required of leaders in the 21st century. Classics majors read some of the most wonderful, moving, subversive and joyful works of literature. They encounter challenging and exciting ideas that gave birth to democracy and philosophy. They keep company with intriguing, often infamous people such as Socrates, Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, Achilles, Nero and Antigone. They encounter events that changed the world.
The classical civilization major is particularly suited to students interested in ancient culture, literature, thought, history, art, and archaeology, but who will not need extensive knowledge of the languages. The major is especially attractive to students who are interested in completing a second major in another department. Pre-medical and prospective law students are encouraged to major or minor in classics to add distinction to their applications for medical or law school. Indeed, majors often take advantage of the department of Classics’ flexibility to pursue a broad range of studies and careers.
Since classics is the study of civilizations in all their manifestations, the field consists of several specialties, including history, literature, art, archaeology, philosophy, linguistics, and language.