The Classics and Archaeology major provides students with a deeper understanding of the literary and cultural foundations of western societies by exploring their roots in the Greek and Roman classical traditions, as well as hands-on study of ancient artifacts. The combined study of the languages, literature, religion, and material cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and the Near East offers the student a wide-ranging and well-rounded preparation in critical thinking, analytic skills, and writing and prepares the student to contextualize the immense achievements of the past in the modern world.