Classical Washington DC

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This course will introduce students to the Greek and Roman precedents behind the institutions, architecture, monuments, and symbols of the nation’s capital city, as well as the debates and controversies they inspire. Topics to be examined include: Roman models for the political institutions of the American republic as well as for slavery; L’Enfant’s plan for Washington DC and its approach to public space; the origins of war memorials and public portrait statues; and Greek and Roman precedents for today’s ‘monument wars’ over issues such as the lack of diversity in public monuments. Assignments will include short papers and a final project. Classroom work will be supplemented by visits to buildings and museum collections in DC.