Through the critical analysis of texts ranging from translations of Greco-Roman authors to works on the nature of Western and non-Western culture, the course examines how politicians, novelists, critics, and educators from the 17th century to the present have interpreted the classical past and have viewed it as reflecting their own values or ideals. The course considers classicism both as it has been appropriated and elaborated by Americans specifically and as a phenomenon common to many cultures. Satisfies SEEDS Political and Civic Life student learning outcome in alignment with Social Justice and Equity; Educated Citizenry value.