Ancient Greek Athletics

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

The course explores the origins and functions of competitive athletics in ancient Greece with a major emphasis upon Olympia and the Olympic Games. The traditional events of the ancient Olympic Games are discussed in detail. The later development of pan-Hellenic athletic festivals such as the pan-Athenaic games, are examined.The class visits the major festival sites of Isthmia, Nemea, and Olympia. Also examined are the changes brought about by Alexander the Great's conquests and by the later domination of Greece by Rome. A brief look at the events leading to the institution of modern international Olympic.