Classical Studies

Session II

Elena Latorre, "Behind the Marble: Ancient Rome, American Ideals, and the Contradictions of Washington, D.C."

This project examines how the classical tradition, particularly the influence of ancient Rome, shaped the architecture, symbols, and identity of the nation’s capital. It asks how these classical influences reflected the ideals that American leaders sought to associate with the new nation, while also considering how the planning and construction of the city reflected the opposite. The research drew on historical scholarship, databases, archival materials in Washington, D.C. (including the Library of Congress), and physical exploration of museums, buildings, and the cityscape. The project anticipates that examining both the people who designed the capital and those who built it will reveal tensions between America’s ideals of freedom and equality and the realities of who those ideals included. Ultimately, this research explored how the nation’s capital reflects both American aspirations and contradictions. 

Student Majors: Psychology and History Major

Advisor: Dr. Jessica Stephens