Discovering Languages and Cultures

Discovering Languages and Cultures - Fall Semester( Formerly Greek and Roman Mythology)

In this one-semester course, students will take an in-depth examination of Greek and Roman myths. These myths helped the ancient Greeks and Romans to make sense of the world and to address issues with everyday life. (Why does the sun rise and set day after day? Well, it must be Helios is his sun chariot.) This class begins with a look at the Greek understanding of the creation of their world, the pantheon of gods (Greek and Roman), and the creation of the human race. The course will also pay particular attention to certain gods, goddesses, heroes and heroines, and the myths that have translated from Greek and Roman traditions to our modern world (e.g. Percy Jackson series). A project will conclude each unit (1. Gods and Goddesses, 2. Hero's Journey, 3. Final Project). The majority of the assignments/activities will be done in class. Therefore, in-class participation is required in order to keep outside work to a minimum.

Discovering Languages and Cultures - Spring Semester (Formerly Greece and Rome in Film):

In this one-semester course, students will discover that ancient Greece and Rome continue to exist outside of museums, but in our everyday life. This class will analyze and discuss adaptations of Greece and Rome in film. This does not mean we will compile a list of “mistakes” for each movie. Students will gain an appreciation for the film with respect to the history that it stems from. Each unit will begin with a solid background of historical and source material. What do we know about the Trojan War, Hercules, or Julius Caesar? Then students will put their knowledge of the history into the role of a producer or screenwriter. What limitations does one have when making history appealing to a modern audience? Money? Material? Authenticity? This class will also analyze how similar stories have been adapted over the years to fit an ever-changing audience. Short quizzes/tests will follow each history unit and films will be followed by a Socratic Seminar or project. The majority of the assignments/activities will be done in class. Therefore, in-class participation is required in order to keep outside work to a minimum.