CLAS230 Classical Mythology
Department of Classics
Monmouth College

Class Format and Expectations

At a Glance:
A typical class will consist of the following:
1.) Open period for questions about assignments and readings. (There is no such thing as a "stupid" question".)
2.) Images of the Day (images which provide context for class topic).
3.) Overview of readings from the epics. (We will systematically read through the Iliad, Odyssey and Aeneid as the semester moves along.)
4.) Putting the epics in a wider mythological context. (We will consider how these myths were told/depicted by other authors and artists, both ancient and modern.)
5.) Finding Meaning in the Myths for Us Today.
 

More details:
Readings from the course books are assigned on a daily basis. In addition, there may be supplementary reading assignments on the web or in the library on related topics. Class periods will usually be a combination of lecture and class discussion on various topics pertaining to the course them. At least fifteen minutes of each class will be devoted to class discussion of assigned readings. from the required texts as well as hand-outs or library assignments. These readings are intended to complement class lectures and discussions. While we may not mention every reading in class, you will be expected to show your familiarity with this material on tests, in class discussions, on tests, and in other assignments. Interesting class discussions depend on faithful completion of these reading assignments by every student. Class lectures and discussions will be supplemented by frequent slide shows depicting art and life in the period.

While daily attendance is not recorded, persistent absence from class will inevitably affect successful completion of course requirements. In exceptional cases, the instructor may place an individual student on "no-cut" status.

Whenever possible, course handouts, including this syllabus, will be available in electronic form on the internet.

Do not hesitate to ask questions in class. There is no such thing as a "stupid question". If you don't understand something, there are inevitably others in the class who do not understand either and you will do the entire class a favor by asking for explanations.

All written work for this course (except quizzes and exams) must be typed, competently proofed and (preferably) submitted via e-mail at toms@monm.edu.  In all your written course work you should pay attention to grammar and organization as well as the quality of your material. Work will be graded on the basis of both form and content. Be sure to consult the instructor's guidelines for the submission of written work. You have the OPTION of resubmitting for reevaluation ALL written assignments (except quizzes and exams), provided this work was submitted on time. If you resubmit your work, you are expected to revise your work based not only on the instructor's comments but also upon your own reevaluation of your initial work. If you resubmit work, you will receive the average of the first and second grades received on the assignment. Work submitted for reevaluation must be received within two weeks of its return by the instructor.

You may be expected to attend Convocations, public lectures, and other college functions. Questions relating to these talks may appear on quizzes, tests, and assignments. Here is a list of this semester's archaeology lectures. You can get extra credit in this course by attending a lecture and submitting a 300-word summary/response.

Please note that class WILL MEET during the period scheduled for a final exam. This meeting will be used for various activities, including ORAL REPORTS, a course summary, and student evaluation. Attendance at this session is obligatory.

This material has been published on the web by Prof. Tom Sienkewicz for his students at Monmouth College. If you have any questions, you can contact him at toms@monm.edu.

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