Readings in Greek Literature (301-0-1)

Instructors

Nick Winters

Meeting Info

Kresge 4364 Classics Sem Rm: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

This course will focus on the controversial figure of Helen of Troy. Her terrifying beauty and her union with the Trojan prince Alexander made Helen into nearly as reviled a figure in Greek literature as she was admired. In the classical era, some authors expressed this contradiction through literary court speeches, prosecuting or defending her case. We shall read excerpts from three of these authors: Euripides, Gorgias, and Isocrates. In addition, we shall survey in translation and secondary scholarship several other ancient attempts to vilify, vindicate, or sympathize with Helen. Throughout the course, we will discuss the cultural significance and development of her story in matters of politics, gender, mythology, and Greek identity. Students will complete a short final project on the reception of Helen in later literature—up to and including contemporary film, television, or digital media.

Class Materials (Required)

Kovacs, David (ed.). Euripides: Troades. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2018. 9780199296156.

MacDowell, D.M. (ed.). Gorgias: Encomium of Helen. Bristol Classical Press, 1991. 9780862920531

Blondell, Ruby. Helen of Troy: Beauty, Myth, Devastation. Oxford University Press, 2013. 9780199731602

Class Materials (Suggested)

Recommended:

Schiappa, Edward, David M. Timmerman, Giles Lauren (eds.). Jebb's Isocrates. Sophron Editor, 2016. 9780989783651

Class Attributes

Advanced Expression
Literature and Arts Foundational Discipline
Literature & Fine Arts Distro Area