Classical Mythology and Its Media

The course aims at providing some key tools related to the study of ancient mythology, with a specific focus on the spread of storytelling patterns in both a synchronic and diachronic sense, from antiquity to contemporaneity.
The week-by-week breakdown of the course
Classical Mythology in Media: Female Characters and Strong Emotions

Lesson 1: Introduction to Classical Mythology
Topics:
- Definitions and scope of classical mythology
- Overview of Greek and Roman pantheons
- Introduction to mythological media (literature, art, theatre, music)
- The role of women in myth
Workshop:
- Group discussion and myth analysis


Lesson 2: Female Figures in Greek Mythology
Topics:
- Medea, Clytemnestra, the Furies, and others
- Gender roles and divine vs. mortal women
- Emotions and agency in myth
Workshop:
- Character analysis and debate on motivations

Lesson 3: Female Figures in Roman Mythology
Topics:
- Dido, Juno, Lavinia, and others
- Roman reinterpretations of Greek myths
- Political and emotional dimensions
Workshop:
- Comparative analysis and cultural discussion

Lesson 4: Rage and Revenge in Myth
Topics:
- Case studies: Medea's vengeance, Clytemnestra's murder of Agamemnon
- Myth as a reflection of social anxieties
Workshop:
- Role-playing and dramatic readings

Lesson 5: Hatred and Anger in Myth
Topics:
- Emotions as narrative drivers
- Divine wrath (e.g., Hera, Athena)
- Mortal fury and its consequences
Workshop:
- Podcasting session on myth reinterpretation

Lesson 6: Modern Receptions of Mythology
Topics:
- Myth in modern literature, film, and performance
- Feminist reinterpretations
- Myth in contemporary art and music
Workshop:
- Media analysis and debate

Lesson 7: Female Characters in Contemporary Media
Topics:
- Modern Medeas and Clytemnestras
- Mythological archetypes in pop culture
- Empowerment vs. victimization
Workshop:
- Group discussion and creative reinterpretation

Lesson 8: The Role of Emotions in Myth
Topics:
- Emotional expression in ancient texts
- Theatricality and performance of emotion
- Emotions as cultural constructs
Workshop:
- Creative writing and emotional storytelling

Lesson 9: Workshop on Individual Reports
Topics:
- Review of key themes and characters
- Research methods and source evaluation
Workshop:
- Peer review and one-on-one consultations

Lesson 10: Presentations and Course Wrap-Up
Topics:
- Student presentations
- Recap of major themes
- Reflections on myth's relevance today
Workshop:
- Final discussion and course evaluation