CL104/EN204 MASTERPIECES OF ROMAN LITERATURE IN ENGLISH TRANSLATION

fall 2008

In this course we will:

a. read, in English translation, an extensive range of works of Roman literature from the classical period (roughly the late third century BC to the early second century AD);

b. identify various characteristics typical of works of Roman literature;

c. reflect on the nature of “national” literatures.

Assignments and Grading:

a. Each week there will be an in-class essay-question quiz on the readings assigned for that week; essay responses should be a half to a full page in length. Your average for these essays will account for 60% of your semester grade. In calculating this average I will drop your two lowest grades.

b. There will be a five-page mid-term take-home essay on a reading not otherwise read for class. The grade for this essay will account for 20% of your semester grade.

c. There will be a five-page final take-home essay on a reading not otherwise read fro class. The grade for this essay will account for 20% of your semester grade.

d. There will be no grade as such for classroom participation as such, but you will be penalized in your final grade if you do not participate regularly in the classroom discussions.

Texts:

There is no textbook for the course. All readings will be linked on the class web site, but you may use different translations if you so choose.

Attendance:

According to the University’s Catalogue, “All students are expected to attend every scheduled class session. The impact of attendance on grading is specified in the syllabus.” Since this class meets only once a week attendance is especially important. If you miss more than two sessions (the equivalent of two weeks of classes) for any reason whatsoever you will have to withdraw from the class. There will be no make-up quizzes, but remember that your two lowest essay grades will be dropped in calculating your final grade.

Leaving early will affect your class participation, and will be penalized accordingly.

Housekeeping:

Professor Rosivach

DMH 126

Office hours: Monday and Thursday 2:00, Wednesday 4:00.

e-mail: If you have any questions on any topic related to class, e-mail me and I will answer your question as soon as I am able. My e-mail address is rosivach@mail.fairfield.edu.

If you have to communicate with me for any reason, I would prefer that you use e-mail, not voice-mail. If you do use voice-mail, please do not expect me to return your call.

The website for this course is http://faculty.fairfield.edu/rosivach/cl104.