A CLASSICAL EDUCATION ABROAD
Classics Abroad 2021 Florence Online
Dates & Times
Monday 26th - Friday 30th July 2021 (2 hours per day) | 13:00 - 15:00 BST
Overview
We are excited to bring Classics Abroad 2021 online for the second time, our Florence-based summer course devoted to exploring classical antiquity through the literature, art, history and culture of Florence.
What's the link between Classics and Florence? Not only does Florence have its own classical past dating back to the Etruscans, but it is also known as the birthplace of the Renaissance i.e. the "rebirth" of classical antiquity. An insight into this period, is an insight into 'Classics' as we know it: Which ancient texts were discovered? Which (and whose) ideas were considered important? How was myth translated into art?
This year there is a twist. Our theme is 'Challenge the Canon' as we reflect throughout the week on the role that Florence and the Renaissance played not only in reviving but also in creating 'Classics'. To find out more about the theme, read our article here.
On this course, you will learn:
-
how to question what you know about antiquity
-
how to approach primary material with "fresh eyes"
-
how to challenge scholarship and common assumptions with confidence
-
how to engage with Renaissance art and literature
-
how gender, race and class bias has affected canon formation
-
how Florence played a role in the transmission of classical texts and ideas
Our Approach
We aim to combine the best elements of an engaging sixth form lesson with the academic depth of university level study. We do this through interactive lectures. Students are encouraged to think independently, engage with primary material and contribute their ideas in whatever way they feel most comfortable. Our international guest tutors embody the passion and intellectual curiosity that we hope to inspire in others!
Course Content
The week-long course will be divided into 10 sessions, led by our tutors (2 hours per day). Resources will be provided for each topic, with some independent reading and study tasks required beforehand in the pre-course workbook. The emphasis is on students learning how to think, not what to think. For the provisional seminar timetable this year, see here. There are also language and experience add-ons which can be added on to your week. No previous knowledge required.
What's Included?
-
2 hours per day interactive lectures (+ independent study), held via Zoom.
-
10 sessions on topics that span classical and Italian art, literature, history and culture.
-
Pre-course workbook with selected extracts and study tasks for students to engage first-hand with course content beforehand.
-
Passionate guest speakers from the UK, Italy and the USA.
-
Tools for a new academic mindset, promoting intellectual curiosity.
Full Course: £110
Application Deadline: Monday 21st June at 12:00 BST.
Income generated from our online course will contribute towards bursaries for upcoming courses in Italy, so do spread the word! Contact us for course fee list in USD and EUR. Stay up to date by following us on on Instagram, Twitter or Medium, where we'll be using the hashtag #ChallengetheCanon.
Optional Add-Ons*
Languages | Time TBC
-
Beginner's Italian
-
Beginner's Latin
+ £50 / 5 x 1 additional hour per day.
Experiences | Time TBC
-
Ancient Spiced Wine Masterclass
+ £15 / 1 additional hour per week.
*Add-ons will run with a min. 5 and max. 10 students.