Examination of six epic poems (in translation), from Classical antiquity: Homer's Iliad and, Odyssey, Apollonius's Argonautica,, Virgil's Aeneid, and Statius's Thebaid. Focus on the, traditional themes of the epic genre, including, the nature of heroism, the relationship between, mortals and gods, issues of peace and war, and the, conflict of individual and communal goals; how, ancient authors adapted epic conventions to suit, their own artistic goals; how these epics, reflected the values and history of contemporary, Greco-Roman civilization; and their influence in, antiquity and beyond.
- Teacher: Gordon Kelly