Gods, Heroes, and Chaos!: An Introduction to Greek and Roman Mythology
CLST 205
Spring 2026
| Section:
01
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| Crosslisting:
WLIT 253, RELI 235 |
This class will dive into the wild and tumultuous world of ancient Greek and Roman mythology to begin to understand its impact on culture and identity in both the ancient and modern world, reading primary source literature, looking at iconography and material culture, and studying later examples of mythological reception. Primary sources span mythical stories of the creation of the universe and the gods themselves; the dramatic exploits, interrelationships, and depictions of the gods; the careers of major heroes and heroines; and the myth of the Trojan war and its long aftermath. While we read ancient works, we will discuss the impact of mythology on religious and cultural practices, history, cultural identity, art, politics, and day-to-day life. We will also discuss the enduring influence these myths have on modern culture -- for better and for worse -- in today's politics, culture and art. Students will acquire mythological literacy, to understand the language of myth itself in both the ancient and modern world, to be able to read the impact myth continues to have on the way we define the natural world, the divine, and humanity's place in the universe. This course counts towards the Literature and Performance track of the Classics major. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
HA CLST |
| Course Format: Lecture | Grading Mode: Student Option |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: None |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (Religion Minor)(Religion) |
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Past Enrollment Probability: 75% - 89% |
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