12 Classics (12CLS2)

12 Classics

SEMESTER TWO COURSE

‘Sappho’s Reputation and Greek Sculpture’

We begin by exploring the reputation of the Greek lesbian poet Sappho – how later cultures have interpreted and understood her: Greek, Roman, medieval, nineteenth century art – and modern lesbian culture. We then study how the Greeks depicted the body in sculpture, with a special focus on the work of Praxitelles.

Topics:

• Sappho’s life and love poetry
• Sappho’s later reputation: Greek, Roman, medieval, nineteenth century art; modern lesbian culture
• The paintings of Simeon Solomon
• Greek sculpture: the male and female body

This course is split into two semesters: students can take just one course or both.