The Classics Department
The Classics Department offers a major in either Greek or Latin, or both ancient languages together, as well as courses of interest to all students, including Pompeii, the Age of Augustus, Ancient Epic, Greek Tragedy, Mythology, The World of Late Antiquity, etc. Believing strongly that the languages must be situated within their social contexts, we encourage student majors to explore offerings in Philosophy, History, Art History, Linguistics, Religion, Theatre, and Archaeology as well. See everything that Classics has to offer in the Course Catalog.
Courses for the major are listed in the University Catalogue under the separate headings of Classics, Greek, and Latin, as well as in other departments offering related courses (History, Religion, Philosophy, Art, etc).
The wide scope of Classics, and its emphasis on close study, analysis, and critical thinking makes the field an excellent preparation for a wide range of professions. Recent graduates are pursuing a variety of careers including academia, law, medicine, journalism, consulting, teaching, and public service. The Department’s small size ensures that every major receives personal guidance and instruction throughout his or her years at Washington and Lee.
Because W&L is a member of Sunoikisis, a collaborative virtual Classics Department sponsored by the Center for Hellenic Studies in Washington D.C., our faculty and advanced students may participate in the courses, conferences, archaeological expeditions, and other opportunities offered by this consortium. All collaborative courses are taught on campus by W&L faculty with the additional advantage of weekly online guest lectures and discussions with students and faculty from other participating colleges. For further information, click the link above or contact a faculty member.
We are a member of Eta Sigma Phi, the national collegiate Honor Society for students of Classics. Students who have formally declared Classics as a major, who have achieved a GPA of 3.7 or higher in the major, and 3.5 or higher overall, and who have successfully completed at least one course at the 300 level in either Latin or Greek may be recommended by the Classics faculty for membership. Invitations are issued at the end of winter term. Members of Eta Sigma Phi are eligible to apply for a variety of opportunities including prizes and scholarship support.
Department Info
- P: 540-458-8180
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202 Tucker Hall
Washington and Lee University
Lexington, Virginia 24450
Rebecca Benefiel Featured in PBS NOVA Documentary on Ancient Pompeii
Benefiel is among a host of experts that reveal the truths about the social and economic makeup of the city before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Rachel Kousser to Deliver the Herman Ward Taylor, Jr. Lecture in Classics
The classicist and art historian’s talk on Alexander the Great will be held March 4 on W&L’s campus.
‘W&L After Class’ Podcast Releases New Episode Featuring Matthew Loar ’07
In this month’s episode, Loar dives into the transformative power of fellowships and student research in shaping individuals.
Twelve W&L Students Awarded Gilman Scholarships to Study Abroad
The Gilman Scholarship Program offers awards of up to $5,000 to U.S. undergraduate students who are Pell Grant recipients.
Joseph, a captain of the men’s soccer team, chose W&L for its well-rounded liberal arts curriculum and reputable school of commerce.
Rebecca Benefiel to Deliver Provost’s Lecture
The annual address that celebrates W&L faculty for excellence in scholarship and teaching will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 12 in University Chapel.
W&L Alumnus Benji Hess ’23 Earns U.S. Teaching Assistantship to Austria
Hess will teach English in Austria and prepare for a career as an educator.
2024 Distinguished Alumni Awards
Washington and Lee University is proud to announce this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award winners
W&L Presents Senior Recital with Gabriella Kogan ’24
Kogan’s piano recital will be held on March 24 at 3 p.m.
2024 Five-Star Distinguished Alumni Awards
Washington and Lee University is proud to announce this year’s Five-Star Distinguished Alumni Award winners
W&L’s Rebecca Benefiel Cited in Smithsonian Magazine Article
The classics professor’s Ancient Graffiti Project digital resource was also mentioned in the article that focuses on ancient graffiti works.
2023 Distinguished Young Alumni Awards
Washington and Lee University is proud to announce this year’s Distinguished Young Alumni Award winners