Classics at UCT | Classics
Classics refers broadly to the study of ancient Greek and Roman cultures, from Bronze Age Greece to the Late Roman Empire, and has been taught at the University of Cape Town since its foundation in 1829.
Study the history, literature, and ideas of ancient Greece and Rome. Classics offers flexible electives, including Word Power, and a Classical Studies major programme that lets you tailor your studies to your interests. You can focus on ancient history and culture without studying ancient languages, or learn Greek and Latin to study ancient texts in their original form.
Why study Classics?
Classics refers broadly to the study of ancient Greek and Roman cultures, from Bronze Age Greece to the Late Roman Empire, and has been taught at the University of Cape Town since its foundation in 1829. Studying classical antiquity prompts critical reflection on both the past and the present, and confers important skills that are valuable across the humanities.
In Classics, you can study a wide range of topics at undergraduate level, from Ancient Greek and Latin language to literature, mythology, philosophy, art, archaeology, and ancient history. Reflecting its focus on the ancient Mediterranean, our curriculum includes the study of the ancient Near East, North Africa, and Egypt.
Our courses fall into two main categories:
(1) Ancient Greek and Latin Language courses
(2) Classical Culture and History courses, which require no knowledge of Greek or Latin
We welcome applications from prospective undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Studying Classics at UCT made me realize the privilege of being able to access the thoughts and experiences of people who lived on the other side of the world two thousand years ago. That realization is an awe-inspiring feeling that has never left me since I first experienced it in Beattie Building all those decades ago.
James Loeb Professor of the Classics, Harvard University
BA UCT 1973
It has, without a doubt, been the very best decision I made to major in Latin and I would recommend the study of the Classics as a way of broadening one’s perspective, widening the lens with which one views the world and gaining a treasure trove of knowledge which is useful in ways one doesn’t quite fathom while still a student.
Lawyer; Author; Columnist; Governance Specialist
BA (LAW) UCT 1991
When it came to the cut and thrust of things, I found that I could write clearly and concisely and could argue the merits of a case. I could look at a complex situation from many points of view, getting to grips with the details while also standing back and thinking strategically about the whole ... In short, I believe my liberal arts and classical background served me very well.
CEO of Westpac, 2008 to 2015; Member of the Group of Thirty
BA UCT 1976
Not only did I enjoy studying classics hugely, finding it one of the most stimulating aspects of my time at UCT; more than that, studying classics at UCT was an essential step in my intellectual and professional journey.
Regius Professor of Civil Law, Cambridge
BA UCT 1995