The Classical Language and Literature concentration in UNC Greensboro’s B.A. in Ancient Mediterranean Studies major offers rigorous training in Greek or Latin, giving you a strong foundation in the languages, texts, and ideas that shaped European literature, history, and philosophy. Through focused language study and close reading of classical works, you develop advanced analytical, linguistic, and interpretive skills valued across many fields.
This concentration prepares students for graduate study in classical languages and literature, as well as for secondary school language teaching and other careers that benefit from deep expertise in ancient languages and cultures.
Classical Language and Literature Concentration Highlights
- Read the classics in their original languages. Develop proficiency in Greek, Latin, or both while engaging directly with the texts that have influenced literature, philosophy, history, and culture for centuries.
- Explore the works that shaped the ancient world. Study epic poetry, drama, historical writings, speeches, and philosophical texts to understand the ideas and stories that continue to resonate today.
- Strengthen your skills in language, analysis, and interpretation. Through translation and close reading, you’ll learn to think critically, communicate clearly, and examine complex texts from multiple perspectives.
- Conduct original research with faculty mentors. Work closely with professors on independent scholarly projects and gain opportunities to present your research at academic conferences.
- Join North Carolina’s largest undergraduate classical studies program. Benefit from a vibrant academic community, personalized mentorship, and a wide range of opportunities to deepen your study of the ancient world.
- Study a discipline with deep roots at UNCG. The University has taught the languages, history, and cultures of the ancient Mediterranean since its founding in 1891.
“I have a lot of interest in ancient weaving techniques because weaving is such an integral part of the ancient world. My understanding of fiber arts is super helpful in reading these texts about weaving. That’s been a cool connection.”
–Ethan Divon, student who made a Renaissance faire costume from scratch
THE Classical Language and Literature STUDENT EXPERIENCE
- Read Greek and Latin texts in their original languages. Develop language skills while exploring the literature, history, and cultures of the ancient Mediterranean.
- Study abroad in locations connected to the classical world. Faculty-led programs in Greece, Rome, and beyond bring your coursework to life.
- Learn in small classes with award-winning faculty mentors. Personalized instruction and discussion-based learning help you grow as a scholar and communicator.
- Strengthen your skills in translation, writing, and critical analysis. Close reading of ancient texts prepares you for success in graduate study and a wide range of careers.
- Become part of a vibrant classical studies community. Connect with fellow students through shared study spaces, departmental events, research opportunities, and individualized advising.
Craft Your Own Epic Story: Courses You Can Take
You can choose from a range of Classical Language and Literature courses offering fascinating insights into culture, society, warfare, and the arts in these epic civilizations. Some courses even offer the opportunity to travel to the Mediterranean and experience these humanity-defining worlds yourself.
Some of Your Options
- AMS 209 – The Classical Art of Influence and Persuasion Introduction to ancient techniques of persuasion and the application of these techniques to persuasive documents and ceremonial speeches critical for studying the development of American democracy. Emphasis is placed on the ability to write persuasively using ancient rhetorical tools and models with special attention to audience and occasion.
- AMS – 240 Blood, Sweat, and Tears: Warfare in Antiquity A survey of Greek and Roman warfare covering strategy, tactics, weapons, technology, and the experience of battle from Homer to the fall of the Roman Empire.
- AMS 328 – Spin, Opinion, Lies and the Caesars A study of how propaganda and public opinion was used in the Roman Empire to legitimize and delegitimize leaders and regimes. We will pay particular attention to the various uses of literature, architecture, rumors, and gossip in the ability of emperors and usurpers to gain and maintain power.
- AMS 332 – Comparative Studies in World Epics A comparative study of the formal and cultural elements of major world epics in translation. The following works may be included: Gilgamesh, Iliad, Odyssey, Aeneid, Chanson de Roland, Divine Comedy, Jerusalem Delivered, Beowulf, Joyce’s Ulysses.
AFTER GRADUATIng with your B.A. in Ancient Mediterranean Studies – Classical LAnguage and Literature Degree
The Classical Language and Literature concentration develops skills in close reading, clear communication, and critical analysis. By studying Greek, Latin, and classical literature, you’ll gain insight into language, culture, and human expression.
Graduates pursue careers in teaching, law, publishing, government, nonprofit leadership, business, and higher education. Many continue their studies in graduate and professional programs. Common fields include classics, literature, history, education, linguistics, and law.
UNCG alumni have enrolled at leading institutions across the country. These include the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Tufts University, Cornell University, the University of Cincinnati, Colorado State University, the University of Maryland, and the University of Georgia.
Potential Career Paths
- Museum Researcher
- Attorney
- Language Instructor
- Legislative Assistant
- Research Analyst
- Mediator
- Policy Analyst
- Community Organizer
- Government Relations
- Professor
Program Details
Degree Type: Bachelor's
College/School: College of Arts and Sciences
Program Type: Majors & Concentrations
Class Type: In Person
Catalog Name: Ancient Mediterranean Studies, B.A. Classical Language and Literature Concentration
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Contact Us
Dr. Joanne M. Murphy
Department Head
Ancient Mediterranean Studies & Archaeology
jmmurph2@uncg.edu
336.256.0389