The Department of Classics actively encourages students of all backgrounds and traditions to participate in the study of the classical heritage. Such an understanding of the unique aspects of Western culture is most important in the contemporary world where all cultures have come into relation with one another. Classics is the study of the intellectual forces that have shaped the European world. To understand the assumptions and ideas of that civilization one has to go back to their early formulations. European literary forms, political and social institutions , and such disciplines as philosophy, history, and many of the natural sciences largely took shape in the ancient cultures of Greece and Rome.
Classics is thus more than the study of ancient languages.
Languages are not learned for themselfes, but because they are necessary for the scientific study of ancient history, literature, religion, mythology, and philosophy. The Classics Department pro vides instruction both in these subjects and in ancient languages. While previous preparation in one or more ancient languages is desirable, it is nevertheless quite feasible for students who discover an interest in classics to begin their language studi es at university. Students of classics must learn Greek and Latin if they wish to take an honours degree or go on to graduate studies in the field, but the Department offers a variety of classes in Greek and Roman Literature, Ancient and Medieval Philosophy, Ancient and Ch ristian Religion, and general Classical Culture, which do not require a foreign language.