CLASS 2638 - [Greek Life Across the Ages: The Ancient Roots of Fraternal Organizations]

(HB) (LA-AS)

Spring. Next offered 2016-2017. 3 credits.

A. Kirk.

From Isis and Osiris to Quill and Dagger, this course explores the ancient origins of modern fraternities and sororities. Beginning with ancient Greek and Roman mystery cults, religious orders, and elite drinking parties, we trace “Greek life” through medieval guilds and fraternal orders to modern American literary groups, secret societies, and lettered societies. Lectures and discussion will focus on primary and secondary readings as well as portraits of fraternities and sororities in art and film. Throughout the course, we will take a comparative approach to our topic, observing how these societies behave within their larger cultural contexts and analyzing how they change or intersect across time and space. Assignments and class discussions will include critical reading and visual analysis skills, analytical and creative writing.