This course celebrates the clash of warriors in warfare, sport, and spectacle in the classical world. Using primary sources and archaeological evidence, the class will survey traditions of combat in ancient art, literature, and society, beginning with Greek and Near Eastern epic; the modes of warfare in Greek society; ancient Olympic combat sports; and, finally, Roman gladiator spectacle. We will examine the role of violent sport in Greek and Roman society, the reception of the competitors, and the use of these events for political or nationalistic ends. Throughout the course we will explore the flexibility of concepts such as military ethics, "western" warfare, violence, honor, and excellence, both in the classical world and in our modern lives. |