The Romans ran the ancient world by the sword, but also by the word. This course explores how they did the latter. Readings include classical works about rhetoric, examples of classical oratory, and the variety of exercises by which the practice of rhetoric was taught. Writing assignments include analyses of speeches by classical orators, as well as a range of ancient rhetorical exercises such as fables, speeches of praise and invective, persuasive speeches to historical figures, and mock courtroom speeches. The course concludes with an examination of the Gettysburg Address and consideration of its debt to classical rhetorical theory.
All readings are in English.
This course is the same as Rhetoric 160. Introduction to Latin Literature. This introductory survey of classical Latin literature in translation extends from the earliest writings in Latin to the authors of early imperial Rome. Students read and analyze selections from Roman comedy, tragedy, epic, lyric, letters, and satire. They also read modern scholarship on the works, and learn about the world in which they were written.