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Classics 36 Dr. Ralph Gallucci
Ancient Epic Office HSSB 4047
Fall 2013 Office Hours MWF 9:30-10:30 gallucci@classics.ucsb.edu

Class Description
In this course we will read the most influential epics of antiquity (Epic of Gilgamesh, Iliad, Odyssey, and Aeneid), paying special attention to plot and character development and to the archaeological, religious, social, political, and cultural background of these works. This course will also survey both the views of modern scholars on various issues of importance for understanding the epics as well as the importance of the classical tradition in popular culture over the past several hundred years. Welcome to the class.

Required Readings
The Epic of Gilgamesh, tr., N.K. Sandars (Penguin Classics) Read this version.
M.I. Finley, “Lost: the Trojan War” (on eres web site)
Homer, The Iliad, tr., Stanley Lombardo
Homer, The Odyssey, tr., Stanley Lombardo
Vergil, The Aeneid, tr., L.R. Lind
Barry Strauss, The Trojan War, A New History Course Evaluation midterm examination 35% final examination (comprehensive) 45% two 1-page essays (400 word minimum per essay) 10%
4-page book review (1000 word minimum) 10% Reading Assignments

Week 1 (Sept. 30-4)
Monday Epic of Gilgamesh pp. 7-20, pp. 61-96
Wednesday Epic of Gilgamesh pp. 96-119
Friday Epic of Gilgamesh continued

Week 2 (Oct. 7-11)
Monday Introduction to Iliad Lombardo intro, pp. xlviii-lviii M.I. Finley, “Lost: the Trojan War” (both on eres web site)
` Iliad Bks. 1-4
Wednesday Iliad Bks. 5-6
Friday Iliad Bks. 7-8

Week 3 (Oct. 14-18)
Monday Iliad Bks. 9-12
Wednesday Iliad Bks. 13-15
Friday Iliad Bks. 16-17 Week 4 (Oct. 21-25)
Monday Iliad Bks. 18-20
Wednesday Iliad Bks. 21-22
Friday Iliad Bks. 23-24 1st Essay Due Week 5 (Oct. 28-Nov. 1) Begin reading
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