Hiram Advisory: Due to evolving recommendations regarding COVID-19, Hiram College transitioned to a remote synchronized learning environment effective March 18. Check back often for updates here.

Classical and Medieval Studies Minor

Traditional Undergraduate

The Foundation of the Liberal Arts

Classical and Medieval Studies is a multidisciplinary minor deeply rooted in the liberal arts tradition. Although based in cultural history, this minor uniquely combines Art History, Latin, English, History, Philosophy, and Political Science into a program predicated upon a comprehensive understanding of Classical civilization as the foundation of Western intellectual culture.

ACADEMIC PATHWAYS AND INFORMATION

Academic Program Tracks

In Classical and Medieval Studies, minors pursue one of three tracks. More information can be found on the Program page listed above.

Classical Studies and Latin

In this track, students will study both the Latin language and Classical antiquity. Students who pursue a track that includes Latin will acquire a skill set that is deeply beneficial to their pursuit of Classical antiquity, since Latin remained the lingua franca (common language) of Europe from antiquity to the early modern era.
Medieval Studies and Latin

In this track, students will study both the Latin language and Medieval period. Competency in Latin will allow students to deepen their understanding of Medieval literature as well as other primary sources by reading them in the original language.
Classical and Medieval Studies

Students who follow this track will focus on Western thought and its cultural institutions, forgoing the Latin language requirement. The legacy of the Classical world remained at the heart of Medieval culture and society, and a deep knowledge of the ancient world is needed to place the Medieval tradition in context.

Who Are Hiram’s Classical and Medieval Studies Students?

Students in Hiram’s Classical and Medieval Studies minor are interested in the past and human history. They may be curious about ancient languages, cultures, and people. Students may choose to pursue a second degree in International Studies, History, Ethics, Philosophy, Political Science, Performing Arts, or one of the other programs that Hiram has to offer.

About the Program

Classical and Medieval Studies is a multidisciplinary minor deeply rooted in the liberal arts tradition. Although based in cultural history, this minor uniquely combines:

Art History
Latin
English
History
Philosophy
Political Science

These disciplines help students develop a comprehensive understanding of Classical civilization as the foundation of Western intellectual culture. Far from being singularly focused upon European culture, this minor examines the Classical tradition as a multicultural phenomenon that emanated from an ethnically, linguistically, and culturally diverse ancient world. A combination of Classical and Medieval Studies also broadens the geographic and cultural scope of a student’s education, which might otherwise solely focus upon Europe. Classics is a multicultural discipline since it focuses on not only the Mediterranean basin but also surrounding regions of Africa and the Middle East.

Benefits of the Program

For those who pursue the Latin track, studying Latin has proven benefits that extend well beyond this minor. Understanding Latin has been shown to improve students’ comprehension of English vocabulary, grammar, and structure, which in turns makes them better writers. Since about 60% of English vocabulary is derived from Latin, students increase their understanding of English words, particularly technical, scientific, legal, and other complex terms. This is especially useful to those aspiring to enter graduate school or the fields of law, science, or medicine.

Students will improve their ability to write, conduct independent research, and critically evaluate a wide range of evidence. In some courses, students may visually research re-created ancient and real-life modern worlds through the use of virtual reality, too. By learning how to use a diverse range of texts, art and artifacts as evidence for problem-solving, Classical and Medieval Studies students will be ready to tackle new challenges with a broad perspective.

Students can concentrate their classical and medieval studies in a flexible way so they can acquire transferable skills that complement a wide range of majors with various career objectives.

Pendleton House

Pendleton House, a restored, historic century house, houses faculty offices, as well as several small classroom and parlor spaces for students taking history courses.
- Learn More
Study Archeology in Italy

Whenever possible, Professor Matt Notarian loves to offer a summer course in Italy. Interested in learning more? Select the link below to lean about the 2019 experience.
- Read the Story