Mar 28, 2024  
USC Catalogue 2022-2023 
    
USC Catalogue 2022-2023 [ARCHIVED CATALOGUE]

Classics (BA)


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The major in classics has three tracks, with distinct but overlapping emphases. In the Classical Languages and Literatures track, students acquire advanced reading knowledge of one or both classical languages (Greek and Latin) and study the literature of Greece and Rome in historical and cultural context. In the Classical Humanities track, students study Greek and Roman intellectual, literary and aesthetic achievements and their impact on later traditions, while also acquiring basic reading knowledge of one classical language. The Ancient Civilizations track emphasizes study of society, politics and history of Greece, Rome and other civilizations of the ancient Mediterranean world in comparative perspective.

All three tracks emphasize critical thinking as well as practice in written and oral presentation as hallmarks of a liberal arts education.

Requirements for tracks are as follows:

Track I. Classical Languages and Literatures


Lower-Division Language Courses*


Students must take three courses in one language of their choosing and two in the other language.

Greek (Choose 2-3 from the following):


Latin (Choose 2-3 from the following):


Note:


*Or equivalent via placement

Upper-Division Language and Literature Courses


  • Four semesters of upper-division language courses in Greek or Latin
  • Two additional upper-division courses from Greek, Latin or Classics
  • Analytical paper, oral presentation, sight reading exam in either Greek or Latin

Track II. Classical Humanities


Language Requirement


Upper-Division Requirements


  • Four upper-division courses from Greek, Latin or Classics
  • Two upper-division courses from Greek, Latin or Classics or from the approved list of outside electives maintained by the major adviser
  • Analytical or research paper; oral presentation; oral examination

Upper-Division Requirements


  • Five upper-division courses in Classics, Greek or Latin
  • Three upper-division courses in classics or from the approved list of outside electives maintained by the major adviser
  • One upper-division course that includes study of a classical civilization other than Greece and Rome.
  • Research paper, oral presentation.

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