| Examine foundational texts from the major genres of Roman literature, including epic, lyric, and satire, tragic and comic drama, oratory, philosophical prose, and the ancient novel. Become familiar with canonical authors such as Vergil, Ovid, Horace, Sulpicia, Seneca, and Cicero. Explore literary features of the texts, as well as issues of gender, sexuality, politics, ethics, and imperialism. Develop an understanding of the legacy of Roman literature in English literature from the Renaissance to the present, including the diversity of early modern and contemporary authors who have written in English in dialogue with the Classical Roman canon (e.g., Spenser, Milton, Morrison, Tempest). All texts will be read in English; no prior familiarity with the ancient world required. |
