Synopses & Reviews
We are all classicists--we come into touch with the classics on a daily basis: in our culture, politics, medicine, architecture, language, and literature. What are the true roots of these influences, however, and how do our interpretations of these aspects of the classics differ from their original reality? This introduction to the classics begins with a visit to the British Museum to view the frieze which once decorated the Apollo Temple a Bassae. Through these sculptures John Henderson and Mary Beard prompt us to consider the significance of the study of Classics as a means of discovery and enquiry, its value in terms of literature, philosophy, and culture, its source of imagery, and the reasons for the continuation of these images into and beyond the twentieth century. Designed for the general reader and student alike, A Very Short Introduction to Classics challenges readers to adopt a fresh approach to the Classics as a major cultural influence, both in the ancient world and twentieth-century--emphasizing the continuing need to understand and investigate this enduring subject.
Synopsis:
Oxford's Very Short Introductions series offers concise and original introductions to a wide range of subjects — from Islam to Sociology, Literary Theory to History, and Archaeology to the Bible. Not simply a textbook of definitions, each volume provides trenchant and provocative — yet always balanced and complete — discussions of the central issues in a given discipline or field. Every Very Short Introduction gives a readable evolution of the subject in question, demonstrating how the subject developed and how it influenced society. Eventually, the series will encompass every major academic discipline, offering all readers an accessible and abundant reference library. Whatever area of study one deems important or appealing, whatever topic fascinates the general reader, the Very Short Introductions series has a handy and affordable guide that will likely prove indispensable.
About the Author
About the Authors:
John Henderson is a Fellow of King's College, Cambridge. Mary Beard is a Fellow of Newnham College, Cambridge.
Table of Contents
1. The Visit 2. On Site 3. Being There 4. A Guide in Hand 5. Beneath the Surface 6. Grand Theories 7. The Art of Reconstruction 8. The Greatest Show on Earth 9. Imagine That 10. 'Et in Arcadia Ego' Outline of Bassae Frieze Timelines Citations and Further Reading Index