Roman chariot races and gladiatorial combat were not just entertainment for the masses, just as the ancient Olympic games were much more than sporting events. Athletic competitions, theatrical performances, and militaristic parades were all public enactments of political and religious ideology. This course examines the spectacle of competitive performances and rituals of power that helped shape ancient Greek and Roman society. Students will investigate ancient writings alongside art-historical and archaeological evidence to consider how social values and identities were constructed through these shared experiences. We will also consider how the modern performances of ancient texts, the Olympic Games, and cinematic representations have emphasized the splendor, drama, and gore of antiquity.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 16

Prerequisites: None. Not open to students who have taken CLCV 305.

Distribution Requirements: HS - Historical Studies

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Fall; Not Offered

Notes: This course is also offered at the 300-level as CLCV 305 though not always in the same semester.