In this course we will read selections from the works of Lucian of Samosata, a Syrian-born essayist and satirist from the second century C.E. who provides a humorous lens into the hybrid culture of the high Roman empire. Writing in a form of Greek modelled on the Athenian classics, Lucian creatively parodied and interrogated the world in which he lived, expanding Greek literature and identity into new directions. We will explore the literary and rhetorical qualities of his work as well as its rich afterlife in later literature and thought. Classics majors and minors must take the course for a letter grade. It may be repeated for credit with advance approval from the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
3-5 units · Letter (ABCD/NP) · GER: Language
In this course we will read selections from the works of Lucian of Samosata, a Syrian-born essayist and satirist from the second century C.E. who provides a humorous lens into the hybrid culture of the high Roman empire. Writing in a form of Greek modelled on the Athenian classics, Lucian creatively parodied and interrogated the world in which he lived, expanding Greek literature and identity into new directions. We will explore the literary and rhetorical qualities of his work as well as its rich afterlife in later literature and thought. Classics majors and minors must take the course for a letter grade. It may be repeated for credit with advance approval from the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Offered in Spring 2027 at Stanford University.