The aim of the course is to offer an introduction to Greek (and Roman) mythology in its literary, artistic and social context. Students will become familiar with basic concepts, patterns, figures and ideas of classical myth through the study of a diverse collection of literary and artistic evidence ranging from Archaic Greece to Imperial Rome (and beyond). At the same time, they will come to reflect on the nature of myth as a multifaceted product of ancient mentality (both Greek and Roman) and evaluate the impact of Classical mythology on the construction of modern identities and ideologies. A selection of case-study narratives will be used to examine the varied meanings and social functions of myth in general. Literary evidence will be complemented by iconography (sculpture, vase painting etc.) and physical remains, such as temples and monuments. Special emphasis will also be paid to gender as an interpretative tool in the investigation of the socio-cultural importance of Classical myth in ancient (and modern) times.
