Classical Washington DC (SEM)

3 Credits · Level: Graduate

In this course, we will consider the Greek and Roman precedents for 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: the Greek origins of war memorials and commemorative ceremonies for the war dead; the role of ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian monuments in the debates about how to commemorate George Washington; L’Enfant’s plan for Washington DC and its approach to public space; and Greek and Roman precedents for today’s ‘monument wars’ over issues such as the lack of diversity in public portraits and what to do with monuments to the Confederacy. Throughout the course students will be encouraged to explore sites and museums related to the material we study in class. Short written assignments will culminate in an independent research project in which students will bring together the Classical past (Greek, Roman, Egyptian) and Washington DC.