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Major in Ancient Civilization (B.A.)

Majors-Ancient-Civilization

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The deep past informs our vital present.

Much of Western culture flows from the civilizations that flourished in the Mediterranean before the birth of Christ. From politics to architecture, Western culture bears the stamp of its origins in these ancient societies. Understanding the cultural impact of these civilizations is essential to understanding the current world.

The curriculum for the major in ancient civilization, leading to a bachelor of arts degree, spans art history, Jewish studies, and philosophy, and includes classical languages and literature — you’ll gain a working knowledge of classical Greek, Hebrew, or Latin. Armed with these skills, you’ll draw connections and conclusions that link some of the oldest societies on earth with the most timely and pressing issues facing the modern Western world.

Catalog Requirements for:

Why Study Ancient Civilization at Clark?

  • Experience a broad, rich program of learning in this intensely interdisciplinary major, based in the Department of Language, Literature, and Culture.
  • Acquire basic facilities in one or more ancient languages — Latin, ancient Greek, or Hebrew — enabling you to access that culture’s literature, philosophy, and history.
  • Plant your feet, expand your mind, and nourish your soul in the ancient soil of Mediterranean countries such as Greece, Israel, Italy, Jordan, and Turkey.

The Ancient Civilization Path

The major in ancient civilization is designed to provide you with a sound knowledge of the ancient Greco-Roman and Judaeo-Christian roots of Western civilization. You are expected to acquire a working knowledge of at least one of the principal languages of the ancient Mediterranean (Classical Greek, Hebrew or Latin); this ensures you direct access to the culture, literature, philosophy, and history of the ancient world.

The major requires the successful completion of at least 10 courses, including

  • Two foundation courses
  • At least one course at or above the intermediate level in Greek, Hebrew, or Latin
  • A senior seminar, preferably to be taken during the second semester of the senior year

During your junior year, you might be accepted into the ancient civilization honors program. Joining the program means you’ll work closely with a professor to create a thesis on a topic of your choice.

Building your foundation

The Clark Experience

The Clark Core allows students to take courses across diverse disciplines, helping them develop critical thinking skills and respect for other cultures and perspectives. You’ll connect classroom learning with action through world and workplace experiences.

Learn More

Faculty and Programs in the Department of Language, Literature and Culture