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 again this year, 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, our theme is 'Challenge the Canon' as we set out to #questioneverything in the realm of Classics and the Renaissance. What is the Canon? The Canon refers to well-known authors and works that have historically been considered 'great' or culturally significant.
We'll be asking new questions of age-old favourites, exploring different perspectives and hearing from new voices. Therefore, we'd love your input. Which authors, myths or themes are you most curious about? Take our survey to have your say, and you will be entered into our second prize draw for a pack of @instalatin greetings cards!
Our Approach
We aim to combine the best elements of an engaging sixth form lesson with the academic depth of university level study. Students are encouraged to draw links across genres and time periods, looking at topics with "fresh eyes". Our international guest speakers embody the passion and intellectual curiosity that we hope to inspire in others!
Last year, topics included: Latin Love Elegy feat. Modern Rap (watch the trailer) Virgil and Dante's Inferno, Lucretius, Black Africans in Renaissance Art and the Classical Nude. For an idea of the itinerary, see last year's timetable here. Resources will be provided for each day, with some pre-reading or independent study tasks required beforehand. There are optional languages and experiences which you can add on to your week.
What's Included?
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10 hours of interactive lectures (+ independent study), held online via Zoom.
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10-12 thematic sessions on topics that span classical and Italian art, literature, history and culture.
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Pre-course workbook with selected extracts and study tasks for students to engage first-hand with course content beforehand.
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Passionate guest speakers from the UK, Italy and the USA.
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Tools for a new academic mindset, promoting intellectual curiosity.
Full Course: £110
Application status: Opens 1st May 2021.
If you're interested in joining us this year, you can register your interest to receive an update when applications open. You can also keep up-to-date by following us on Instagram, Twitter or Medium and using the hashtag #ChallengetheCanon. Income generated from our online course will contribute towards bursaries for upcoming Classics Abroad courses in Italy, so do spread the word!
Optional Add-Ons*
Languages | Time TBC
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Beginner's Italian
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Beginner's Latin
+ £50 / 5 x 1 additional hour per day.
Experiences | Time TBC
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Ancient Spiced Wine Masterclass
+ £15 / 1 additional hour per week.
*Add-ons will run with a min. 5 and max. 10 students.