This course is meant as an introduction to the study of oral traditions from around the world, with special emphasis being placed on the interpretation of two oral-derived epics from ancient Greece, the Iliad and the Odyssey. By looking comparatively at works stemming from Native American, West African, South Slavic, and Old English oral traditions, we will attempt to become better readers of these works originally intended for appreciation through a mainly oral mode of transmission. In order to aid in this process, reference will be made to several different methodologies for interpreting oral and oral-derived works, but the focus throughout will be on the primary texts themselves. Dengate back to top A survey of the archaeology of Greece from the Stone Age through the Hellenistic period emphasizing the contributions of the study of material remains to the understanding of ancient Greek society and life. The course treats ancient religion from Minos through Greek and Roman polytheism to the triumph of Christianity.
All reading is in the ancient sources in English translation.
Consent of departmental honors advisor. 1 to 3 hours. May be repeated once. May be repeated. The class will study selected Greek tragedies in English translation as well as a number of their adaptations in modern literature.