Description of the course
The course aims to introduce the lives, the historical contexts and the works of four significant authors of Latin literature (Cicero, Catullus, Sallust, and Livy), as well as their themes and styles. It will also cover the reading and commentary of significant passages.
After providing a general overview of the authors and their periods, the lessons will focus on to an in-depth analysis of specific topics and a discussion about the relevance and continuity of the classics in European culture.
The seminar will combine frontal teaching and reading of texts with commentary and group discussions. For this reason, students are required to produce personal analyses and commentaries of texts and provide feedback on their experience.
Guided tours of Macerata, the Museo Palazzo Buonaccorsi and Urbs Salvia will follow the lessons with the teaching staff and local guides
Teacher Staff: Proff. Francesca Boldrer, Olga Cirillo, Elisa Della Calce
I day – 22.04.26: h. 15-18 (lessons), h 18-19 visite to the centre of Macerata
II day – 23.04.26: h 9-13 (lessons); h 15-17 (lessons), h. 17–19 visite to Museo Buonaccorsi (Galleria dell’Eneide)
III day – 24.04.26: h. 9-12 visit to the archaeological park of Urbs Salvia (Urbisaglia) with reading of classical texts on site.
Modules and lesson topics
Module 1: Prof. F. Boldrer, Cicero’s eloquence, humanitas and humour
Module 2: Prof. Elisa della Calce: Exemplary Figures and Moral Values in Sallust and Livy
Module 3: Prof. Olga Cirillo: The influence of Catullus’s poetry on European lyric poetry from the Middle Ages to the contemporary age
Learning outcomes
Knowledge of significant authors of Latin literature and key figures in European thought and culture; in-depth study of their thought and works through the reading of selected passages; development of the ability to analyze and interpret Latin texts with critical thinking as well as sensitivity; understanding of the values, messages, and examples of humanitas that classics, both poets and prose writers, can still offer to support and enrich individual life and social relations today.
Assessment methods
The assessment will take into account student participation during lessons, their contribution to classroom discussions, and their final assignment.
Who can apply
This course is open to any ERUA bachelor or master student with a general knowledge about Antiquity with critical thinking as well as with sensitivity.
How to apply
Your application should include:
- A motivational letter detailing your knowledge of the subject and interest in the topics.
If you are interested, please submit your application by 28th February 2026 here.
If you have any other administrative questions about the course, please contact your local ERUA team at your university or Unimc local team (tobia.ciarrocchi@unimc.it).
