This undergraduate seminar has two goals. First, it explores the ways in which ancient urban dwellers imagined and designed their cities. Second, it investigates the notion of the city as an actor and inspiration for ancient artistic and literary production. The focus will be on Athens, Alexandria, Rome, Constantinople, and Jerusalem. Weekly writing assignments, participation, a short presentation, and a final paper are required.

This course fulfills the following Major requirements: Geographical areas (A), and Chronological period (I), based on the topic of the final research paper or project.