Classics

Classics is the original interdisciplinary major. It explores the languages, literature, history, and cultures of Ancient Greece and Rome, as well as the broader ancient world. Our majors and minors have the freedom to explore archaeology, history, politics, rhetoric, religion, magic, science, philosophy and mythology. And through the study of the Ancient Greek and Latin languages, they significantly enhance their vocabulary and verbal reasoning skills.

This broader course of study rewards curiosity and cultivates mental flexibility. Through close engagement with ancient texts and artifacts as well as timeless questions about justice, power, and human purpose, Classics students are equipped to bring the long view to bear on the ever-changing present.

To help students develop their own interests, we offer a choice of three tracks: Classical languages (Latin and Ancient Greek), literature and culture, or material culture and history. The program also offers a B. A. in the teaching of Latin.

Purdue Classics Club: Eta Sigma Phi (Purdue Chapter of National Honors Society for Latin and Ancient Greek (link: http://www.etasigmaphi.org/hsphi)

Advisor: Prof. Daniel Conner (conner62@purdue.edu)

Dr. Campbell helps students decipher a Latin manuscript during Indiana Junior Classical League's Annual Latin Day (November 2023).	Student Nathan Burnett mapping a Hellenistic Era Tower at Ovacik, Turkey, in Prof. Rauh’s Anatolian Archaeology Field School (May 2023).