Classical Studies Department

"I think myself more indebted to my father for this than for all the other luxuries his cares and affections placed within my reach."
--Thomas Jefferson (W&M class of 1762), on his classical education

Ours was one of the original departments at William & Mary. We offer a curriculum that emphasizes the rigorous study of language, culture and history and the development of the faculties of critical thinking and effective communication. We welcome students who value that sort of education. We also welcome students who like a good toga party every now and then.

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In the News

The Department Welcomes a New Member

The Department is very pleased to welcome Professor Maria (Molly) Swetnam-Burland as a new Assistant Professor of Classical Studies

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The Giants Upon Whose Shoulders We All Are Standing

Georgia Irby-Massie demonstrates how close Eratosthenes came to calculating the circumference of the earth using measurements from a pair of sundials, one on the Tropic of Cancer and another in Alexandria. His measurement was accurate to within 15 percent

The bathtub scene made the cut...but just barely.

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Perspectives

Beth at the Great Baths, in Bath, U.K.

Beth Block '08 Explores Roman Britain

Beth Block '08 writes about her summer travels in Roman Britain:

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CJ in front of the running Gorgon

CJ Kamp '08 Travels to Sicily

CJ Kamp'08 writes about his trip to Siracusa, Italy:

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