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Department of Modern Languages

Modern Languages - Classical Studies

One of two major Western classical languages, the Latin language, along with the associated Roman culture, provide the basis for much of the cultural, religious, and linguistic traditions that shape the way we live even today. Coming to know the Roman language and culture can help you to better understand how our modern American world works—and how, sometimes, it doesn't. Moreover, by learning Latin and discussing literature, you will develop your skills at critical thinking, reading, writing, and self-expression.

Read details about how to apply for the Classical Studies Minor.

Courses offered in Greek

Offered periodically, please contact Dr. McCloskey for more information at mccloskey@ksu.edu.

Courses offered in Latin

CLSCS105. Latin and Greek for Scientists. (2) The course is designed specifically to provide students of the biological sciences a background in Latin and Greek roots of scientific terms. Emphasis on prefixes, suffixes, and word derivations. No prior knowledge of either Latin or Greek is required. Course may not be applied toward the fulfillment of either language or humanities requirements for any degree. Offered Spring and Summer. 
LATIN101. Latin I. (5) An introductory study of the Latin language. Offered every fall.
LATIN102. Latin II. (5) Continuation and completion of the introductory study of Latin. Offered every spring.
LATIN301. Latin III. (3) An intermediate study of the Latin language via a study of original Latin prose and poetry. Offered every fall.
LATIN302. Latin IV. (3) Continuation of the intermediate study of the Latin language via a study of original Latin prose and poetry. Offered every spring.
CLSCS501. Classical Literature in Translation. (3) Topics in classical literature. Reading and discussion (in English) of Greek and Latin authors, such as Homer, Virgil, Ovid and Herodotus. No prior knowledge of classical languages required. Cross listed with ENGL501.
CLSCS549. Special Studies in Latin.(Var.) Pr.: Consent of the department head and instructor involved. Independent study.

Minor in Classical Studies

To Receive a Minor in Classical Studies:

(1)    Declare your minor! You can do that here.

(2)    Complete 18 hours of course work:

Language Requirement: 6 hours of intermediate language.

              Either:

Latin 301 (3) and Latin 302 (3) May be repeated for credit.

              Or

Greek 301 (3) and Greek 302 (3)

Humanities Requirement:

CLSCS/ENGL 501 (3): Ancient Literature in Translation. May be repeated for credit.

              AND

CLSCS/HIST 502, 565, 566, 597 (3): Ancient Civilizations

To reach 18 hours, students can take a variety of courses:

ENVD 250 (3): History of the Designed Environment I (more information here)

HIST 567 (3): Europe in the Middle Ages (more information here)

HIST 585 (3): Medieval Religion and Politics (more information here)

Music 530 (3): Music History I: Ancient Greece through 1700 (more information here)

POLSC 661 (3): Political Thought: Classical to Sixteenth Century (more information here)

THTRE 572 (3): History of Theatre I (more information here)

Courses offered Spring 2022

Introduction to Latin 2 (Latin 102) Introduction to Latin2 (Latin 102) This course continues our introduction to the grammar, syntax, vocabularyand structure of the Latin language. This course teaches Latin not as a spoken language but as a language that is read and written. You may enroll in this class if you have previously taken Latin 101 at K-State or elsewhere, in high school or otherwise. In the latter case, please email Dr. McCloskey to chat and ensure Latin 102 is an appropriate placement for you. 1) It's super fun! 2) Completion of the Latin language sequence will fulfill the language requirementfor a BA and International Overlayrequirement for the BS. 3) Students who take Latin consistently get among the highest GRE, MCAT, and LSAT scores! 4) Latin offers small class sizes, a supportive community of students, and a wide variety of scholarship options! 5) Latin 102 textbooks are provided free of charge (up to the course cap)! Spring 2022MTWU: 9:30-10:20In personmodality. The Latin sequence can also be taken with an Honors contract.Find us online at @kstateclassics (link to Classics website in bio). Email mccloskey@ksu.edu with questions.

Latin 302: Intermediate Latin--Poetry Latin 302: Intermediate Latin--Poetry This course will read Latin poetry in the original. You may enroll in this class if you have previously completed introductory-level Latin at K-State or elsewhere, in high school or otherwise. In the latter case, please email Dr. McCloskey to chat and ensure Latin 302 is an appropriate placement for you. Spring 2022 MFW: 10:30-11:20 In person modality. The Latin sequence can also be taken with an Honors contract. Find us online at @kstateclassics (link to Classics website in bio). Email mccloskey@ksu.edu with questions.HIST 566 History and Culture of Rome This class will survey the history of ancient Rome from its founding, through itstransformations from Kingdom into Republic, and Republic into Empire. We will use Roman literature, art, visual media and archeology to discuss Roman history and the development of Roman civilization over a millennium. In a discussion-based format,our conversations will particularly focus on three areas and their evolution from Roman republic to Empire: Roman daily life; second, the ever-changing role of the Roman military; thirdly, Roman governance. All readings are in translation. No prior knowledge of classical literature, languages, or ancient history is expected. Spring 2022 Tuesday/Thursday 2:30pm-3:45 Questions? Email Dr. McCloskey (mccloskey@ksu.edu) This course is approved for the Primary Texts Certificate. It may be taken with an Honors Contract for Honors Credit. It is cross-listed with GWSS. It can be counted towards the Classics minor

Dr. Benjamin McCloskey

Photo of Dr. McCloskey

Assistant Professor of Classical Studies
mccloskey@k-state.edu
Eisenhower 202
Office Hours:
Monday 11:30-12:20
Thursday 4:00-5:00
Friday 1:30-2:20
Or by appointment