Classics and Racism, A Message from the Chair
As an African American, I am sad and angry about recent events, as I hope everyone is. As a Classics professor, and department chair I also feel a tremendous responsibility to question our discipline’s contribution to our society’s woes. “The field of Classics is dedicated to the recovery and interpretation of ancient Greek and Roman culture and society … because of the unique role played by these cultures in shaping the basic conceptual categories on which our intellectual, professional, and civic lives are founded.” These are the words of our departmental mission statement. The deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and many more before them show that now is an especially crucial time to interrogate our discipline’s role in the shaping of a society with institutions that have promoted racism and inequality and to end misinterpretations of the ancient world that seem to promulgate such hateful agendas. Our national organizations, The Society for Classical Studies and the Archaeological Institute of America, have issued statements beginning this hard work, Society for Classical Studies and Archaeological Institute of America. As a Department, we are committed partners in their fight for racial justice and we are dedicated to creating an inclusive space for our students and colleagues. We remain steadfast in our mission to educate our students to be civic minded and to become leaders that support and fight for justice.
Study Classics at UF
- Latin Language
- Roman History
- Literature
- Philosophy
- Mythology
- Classical Drama and Art
- Archaeology of Ancient Rome
Center for Greek Studies
Students may declare a major in Modern Greek Studies, learn the language throughout history, and join the Socrates Club.
Distance Learning Program
An online graduate program for teachers with a Latin background who would like to further their education.