Brock’s Spring/Summer courses are set to take students back in time to explore ancient civilizations and mythologies that continue to shape the contemporary world.

Offered this spring, CLAS 1P91 Discovering Ancient Greece uses literature, art, archaeology and history to explore the culture and society of ancient Greece.

The summer course CLAS 1P95 Myths of the Greek and Roman Gods examines nature myths, ritual myths and the diffusion of myths in the ancient world as well as modern-day theories about these stories, which are often referenced in popular culture.

These first-year courses are designed to provide a solid foundation in the field that can be used as a springboard for further study and travel opportunities.

This spring, for example, CLAS 3M25 students will build on knowledge gained in previous courses when they experience the sites and monuments of ancient Italy first-hand.

Led by Associate Professor of Classics and Archaeology Carrie Murray, the class will spend two weeks in May touring famous Etruscan and Roman sites. A highlight of their packed itinerary is Pompeii, an ancient Roman community destroyed — and preserved — by volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 CE.

During the trip, students will gain insight into Italian artistic, social, political, cultural and historical contexts while dabbling in Italian culinary arts through pasta and pizza making classes.

Murray said travel abroad courses offer an enrichening way of learning about the past beyond the walls of the classroom.

“During the study tour in Italy, students experience what it was like in ancient Pompeii by entering houses like the House of the Faun and seeing where the famous Alexander Mosaic decorated a room,” she said.

For a full list of Brock’s Spring and Summer Term course offerings, visit brocku.ca/springsummer