Study abroad in Greece with CLCV 250:  Sports and Society in Ancient Greece and Rome

This course is a short-term faculty-led program where students will have the opportunity to explore the role of sports in ancient Greek and Roman society. This course explores the integral role of sports in ancient Greek and Roman societies, spanning from approximately 3000 B.C.E. to the sixth century C.E. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will investigate the diverse social fabric of the ancient Mediterranean, examining how factors such as gender, race, and class influenced athletic participation and spectatorship. The course will cover the foundational elements of Greco-Roman athletics, including the contexts, rules, and notable athletes associated with various competitions. Students will develop critical skills for analyzing archaeological and literary sources to uncover the social significance of sports in the lives of ordinary individuals. By drawing connections between ancient practices and contemporary issues, participants will gain insights into the lasting impact of athletic competition and its imagery in modern society.  

For more information or to apply, consult this webpage or contact Dr. Dan Leon at dleon@illinois.edu.

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Prof. Dan Leon teaching CLCV 250 in Greece
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Prof. Dan Leon teaching CLCV 250 in Greece
Illinois in Athens

The Department of the Classics oversees a semester-long residential program in Athens, Greece. You can spend the Fall, Spring, or the entire academic year in one of the most exciting cities in Europe while earning credit toward your UIUC degree. Students from all UIUC colleges and majors are welcome. The program centers on a humanities and social sciences curriculum and offers a limited number of for-credit internship opportunities. Click here or write to Professor Clara Bosak-Schroeder at cbosak@illinois.edu for more details. You can view a recorded information session here.

Short-term programs are offered through the department on an occasional basis. Previous destinations include Athens, Greece and Paphos, Cyprus. Stay tuned for more information.

 

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Athens
Professor Leon’s War and Society in Ancient Greece. Athenian Acropolis, January 2019.