Classics and Mediterranean Studies 045: Classical Mythology
This course is an introduction to ancient Greek and Roman mythology. Moving from Homer's Iliad and Odyssey through Ovid's Metamorphoses, this course surveys the many forms of theater and lyric poetry. You will gain an understanding of not only Greco-Roman mythology, but also an appreciation for ancient literary texts and cultures.
What will I learn in this course?
- You will learn ancient Greek and Roman cultures and societies through their theatrical and mythological texts.
- You will learn about the Pantheon of Greek and Roman gods and goddesses.
- You will learn how Greek and Roman cultures used their mythologies in social and moral functions.
- You will learn how to enjoy the variety of ancient literatures that have been preserved through the centuries.
This course meets the General Education Humanities (GH) requirements, the International Cultures (IL) requirement, and the Bachelor of Arts degree requirements. See your advisor if you have questions about how this course can be used in your program of study.
Are there any prerequisites for this course?
No specific classes are required before taking CAMS 045.
I've never taken an online course before. What is it like?
This course is taught completely online. We'll use Penn State's course management system, ANGEL, for CAMS 045, and you will be able to communicate with the professor and your classmates through e-mail and threaded discussions within ANGEL.
You do not need to come to campus at any time, and you do not need a proctor or remote testing site.
An online course, however, is not easier than on-campus course. In fact, it takes a lot more self-discipline. You must be willing and able to commit the same amount of time as you would for attending class and studying for a traditional course. You must also be a motivated, organized student who feels confident about reading to learn and who is comfortable working independently. If you're wondering whether an online course is right for you, take this short survey to find out more about how online learning is different.
What are the technological requirements for this course?
To complete this course, you must have the following equipment or capabilities:
- Have access to a computer that meets the ANGEL technological requirements.
- Have access to a computer with a sound card and speakers
- Have access to a high speed Internet connection to listen to .mp3 audio files
- Be comfortable with navigating the Internet
How is the course structured?
CAMS 045 has 25 lessons. The course lessons are structured around themes, characters, and events such as the Trojan War; it also includes a section on modern interpretations of classical mythology. Grades for this course are based upon quizzes, exams, a term paper, and discussion board participation. Exams cover material from both the lectures and the reading assignments. The 4-6 page term paper is assigned with a specific topic posted in the ANGEL course management system.
Where can I get more information?
For more information about CAMS 045 Online, see a recent course syllabus. To register, visit the Office of the University Registrar. At the beginning of each semester, all enrolled students should access CAMS 045 at the site of Penn State's course management system, ANGEL .

Apollo
Hermes is the one "of many shifts, blindly cunning, a robber, a cattle driver, a bringer of dreams, a watcher by night, a thief at the gates, one who was soon to show forth wonderful deeds among the deathless gods."
Homeric hymn to Hermes
Achilles and Patroclus
Achilles bandages the arm of his friend Patroclus. The latter turns his head aside to avoid the sight of blood and of Achilles grimacing at his pain.
Wikipedia
