Middlebury

CLAS 0420

Seminar Classical Literature

Seminar in Classical Literature: Roman Epic
Vergil’s Aeneid exerted a profound influence on all Latin poetry that followed. This seminar will examine the epic tradition after -- and in response to -- Vergil. We will explore defining aspects of post-Vergilian epic such as its obsession with evil, fascination with familial and civil violence, subversion of the gods, and political engagement. Readings will concentrate on poems such as Lucan’s Civil War, Statius’ Thebaid and Achilleid, Valerius Flaccus’ Argonautica (a.k.a. Jason and the Argonauts), and Silius’ Punic Wars. We will also examine the major trends in scholarly literature on these poems. 3 hrs. sem.
Subject:
Classics
Department:
Classics
Division:
Humanities
Requirements Fulfilled:
CMP EUR HIS LIT
Equivalent Courses:
CLAS 0337
HIST 0337

Sections in Spring 2014

Spring 2014

CLAS0420A-S14 Seminar (Witkin)
CLAS0420B-S14 Seminar (Witkin)