Classics and classical archaeology explore the ancient Mediterranean world, from prehistory to the decline of imperial Rome — a span of 4,000 years! We are an interdisciplinary field that asks new questions about the ancient world by using its written texts, artworks, and material culture. The conversations of today begin in the past, with new finds discovered every year.

The societies of ancient Greece and Rome shaped many of the literary, artistic, philosophical, political, legal, and scientific traditions that remain vital to life today. Democracy has its origins in ancient Athens, as does the concept of equality before the law. Contemporary art, literature, and film continue to adapt ancient artistic traditions and myths in exciting ways. English and other European languages — including French, Italian, and Spanish — preserve Greek and Latin words, many of which are an essential part of modern legal and scientific terminology. The peoples of the ancient Mediterranean confronted many of the pressing issues we continue to face today, such as climate change, identity crises, migration pressures, natural disasters, pandemics, slavery, and sexual violence.

At Brock, you can study the Greek and Roman worlds in their broader Mediterranean context. Here you can choose from a wide range of courses in ancient art and archaeology, drama and epic, history, Greek and Latin, covering topics that match your specific interests and goals such as myth and religion, women and gender, sport, slavery, technology, food, and more.

Students have gone on to careers in archaeology, museums, tourism, teaching, management, business, healthcare, law, politics, and other fields requiring critical thought and inquiry. What questions will you ask?

The Department of Classics and Archaeology is located in the International Centre Building on John Macdonell Street (between the 573 Glenridge Building and Quarryview Residence). Come visit us on the third floor and see student displays curated from artefacts in Brock’s Cypriote Museum!