Greek and Roman Mythology

Introduction

• Uncover the multifaceted nature of myth and its enduring significance through the ages.
• Engage with ancient and modern perspectives on myth and its cultural impact.
• Explore the world of Homer and gain insights into epic poetry and its relevance.

Becoming a Hero

• Dive into the intensive study of heroism through Homer's epic poem, the Odyssey.
• Examine the journey of Telemachus and Odysseus, exploring themes of heroism, family dynamics, and divine relationships.
• Gain a deeper understanding of hospitality, resourcefulness, and the values depicted in the Odyssey.

Adventures Out and Back

• Follow the perilous journeys of Odysseus, encountering unforgettable monsters and mythical landscapes.
• Explore the underworld and delve into some of the best-known stories from ancient myth.
• Uncover the profound impact of Odysseus' adventures on the narrative of ancient mythology.

Identity and Signs

• Explore the theme of identity as Odysseus navigates the challenges of revealing his true self and regaining his kingdom.
• Examine the significance of signs and symbols in the narrative, and their role in shaping the story.
• Gain insights into the nuanced portrayal of reunion and scheming in the Odyssey.

Gods and Humans

• Delve into the authoritative story on the origin of the cosmos through Hesiod's Theogony.
• Explore the fierce struggle and violence that shaped the universe, revealing the intricate dynamics between gods and mortals.
• Gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Greek pantheon and the profound impact of Hesiod's narratives.

Ritual and Religion

• Examine the intricate relationship between myth and ritual in Greek religion, shedding light on their cultural significance.
• Explore the powerful stories and themes embedded in the hymns to Olympian deities, offering intimate insights into ancient religious practices.
• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the profound interplay between myth, ritual, and religious expressions in ancient Greek culture.

Justice

• Uncover the themes of justice and betrayal through an introduction to tragedy and the exploration of family ties.
• Engage with the profound ideas of justice portrayed in the Oresteia, offering deep insights into ancient perspectives on moral and ethical dilemmas.
• Explore the complex readings of the Oresteia, revealing the timeless relevance of these narratives in the context of justice and retribution.

Unstable Selves

• Explore the themes of fate and identity through an in-depth examination of Oedipus and Dionysian rituals.
• Delve into the complex portrayal of unstable selves, shedding light on the profound impact of fate and identity in ancient narratives.
• Gain insights into the nuanced readings of Oedipus and the Bacchae, offering a comprehensive understanding of ancient Greek tragedies.

The Roman Hero, Remade

• Examine the intricate interplay between myth and history, as portrayed in the Aeneid and the retelling of ancient tales.
• Explore the themes of love, loss, and destiny through the captivating narrative of Aeneas and Dido, offering profound insights into the Roman hero's journey.
• Gain a deep appreciation for the profound impact of Roman mythology and the enduring legacy of the Aeneid.

Roman Myth and Ovid's Metamorphoses

• Delve into the compelling themes of the afterlife and the underworld through an exploration of Ovid's Metamorphoses.
• Uncover the profound impact of Ovid's narratives on the portrayal of myth and the founding of Rome, offering unique insights into Roman mythology.
• Engage with the captivating retelling of ancient tales, shedding light on the enduring allure of Roman myth and its impact on cultural narratives.