LAT 124 Post-Vergilian Latin Epic

Instructor: Kathleen Cruz
Course Description: In this course, we will read selections from Statius' Thebaid, a 1st century CE epic poem narrating a devastating war waged by two brothers. While doing so, we will consider the Thebaid's place between both Greek and Roman mythic and literary traditions as well as how Statius' ambitious poem responds to the socio-political concerns of the Rome of his day. We will also explore how this poem bursting with vengeful ghosts, malicious Furies, and men so hubristic that they threaten even the Olympian gods also arguably includes some of the most poignant depictions of human connection and loss in Latin literature.

Prerequisite(s): LAT 100 (can be concurrent); or consent of instructor.

  • Learning Activities: Lecture/Discussion 3 hour(s); Extensive Writing.
  • Repeat Credit: May be repeated 1 time(s) when topic differs.
  • Grade Mode: Letter.
  • General Education: Arts & Humanities (AH); World Cultures (WC); Writing Experience (WE).