GBL 246 GREECE: CLASSICS IN CONTEXT: ANCIENT GREECE
This course will primarily introduce students to the art, architecture, religion, and history of ancient Greece, from the Bronze Age (the “Mysterious Minoans” and the first Greeks—the Mycenaeans) to the “Golden Age of Athens” in the Classical period and to the Macedonian dominance under Philip II and Alexander the Great. In this class, students will visit and examine major ancient historical sites throughout the Greek Mainland and Crete. Additional destinations will include the Byzantine and Medieval sites in Meteora, Napoli, and Thessaloniki. Along the way, students will also gain first-hand experience of many aspects of modern Greek culture. Though the oracle of Delphi has long ceased to prophesy and the shrine of Asclepius no longer witnesses healing miracles, Greek gods and goddesses still fascinate modern people. Although the Trojan War and King Minos’ labyrinth can now only be sought in legend and myth, Agamemnon, Hercules, Theseus, and their heroic deeds still live in our imagination. The bustling Plaka may have replaced the Agora as the center of commercial activities and tourism, but the Parthenon continues to inspire awe and wonder, the Pnyx still echoes the first debate of the people’s assembly, and the footprints of Greek athletes are permanently set within the history of the stadium at Olympia. Ancient Greece is very alive! Let us explore together this land, rich in creativity and wonders! Prerequisite: GBL 146. Application and acceptance required. Additional travel fee is required. Counts toward Civilization requirement, and satisfies one unit of experiential learning toward fulfillment of the Experiential Learning Requirement. Counts toward the Classical Studies minor.