Objectives
Graduates of the Programme should have a strong grounding in the methodologies and history of literary, philological, linguistic, historical, theoretical-comparative, and artistic-archaeological disciplines. They should also be familiar with the various methods of textual analysis, paying particular attention to ancient and modern cultures. Accurately interpreting the key features of Classical culture is essential for understanding it.
Specifically, the Programme aims to provide:
- a solid grasp of the Greek and Latin languages and literatures from their origins to the Middle Ages (with the option to delve deeper into their evolution up to the present day), as well as the Italian language and literature from their origins to the present day;
- sound knowledge of ancient history and a broad understanding of related subjects (e.g. archaeology, epigraphy, the history of ancient philosophy and Oriental studies);
- basic knowledge of medieval, modern, and contemporary history;
- an understanding of various methods of interpreting texts, historical phenomena, and culture;
- a sound understanding of philological methods (e.g. textual criticism, history of traditions and classical language history) for interpreting complex literary texts and for applying historical reconstruction methods;
- full written and oral proficiency in at least one other European Union language, in addition to Italian;
- confident and effective use of the main IT and telematic communication tools relevant to their specific field of study.
As part of the curriculum, students are offered specialised modules in the first year that are similar to those offered in other degree programmes within the Faculty of Humanities. In the second year, students undertake modules that characterise the Classical field, as well as other educational activities. In the third year, students take modules in the Classical field and related disciplines, as well as electives, and complete a final thesis.
Introductory or preparatory modules are offered in some subject areas, such as Latin and Greek Language and Literature, to provide an initial introduction to the subject. Elementary Latin and Greek courses have also been developed for those without a classical background who wish to begin exploring Classical studies.
The programme aims to educate experts in Classical culture by providing flexible training that prepares them for a variety of professional contexts. Graduates will be able to:
- understand the linguistic variety and dynamics of Greek and Latin from their origins to the Middle Ages, with the option of studying their subsequent development in more depth up to the contemporary era;
- understand the formation, traditions and innovative processes of ancient literature, paying attention to the specific characteristics of each era;
- understand the structures of ancient languages and literatures, as well as their linguistic, stylistic and rhetorical evolution;
- establish connections between ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary cultures;
- explore the history of literary genres, motifs, and themes in the ancient world and compare them with those in medieval, modern, and contemporary cultures;
- explore ancient historical phenomena and dynamics by studying the relationships between texts and other media or codes, establishing effective connections with medieval, modern, and contemporary history;
- demonstrate good analytical, synthesis and argumentative skills in complex written and oral communication.
Learning is achieved through the most up-to-date theories, methodologies, and techniques for approaching all types of texts and testimonies (e.g. papyri, inscriptions, manuscripts, and iconographic material), with the aid of all available IT tools.
The Programme’s teaching regulations define the percentage of the overall time available to students for personal study or other individual learning activities, within the applicable regulatory limits.
Combining the acquisition of specific skills with a cross-disciplinary education enables students to explore the various aspects of the Classical world with confidence and insight. This allows them to analyse complex phenomena and enhance their professional profile. The result is professionals who are qualified to work in fields such as the dissemination of knowledge and culture (e.g. publishing and journalism) and the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. They are also well suited to general sectors requiring cultural awareness, analytical skills, and the ability to synthesise information and develop original, creative solutions.