We shall focus on evidence that both elucidates how the ancient Greeks and Romans viewed sexual and gender identity, and illustrates the cultural values lying behind those constructs. In so doing we shall read a variety of texts, including poetry, comedy, oratory, philosophy, and medical writings, but we shall examine other evidence as well, including vase and wall painting and inscriptions.

In scope, the course will be divided about equally between the ancient Greek and Roman worlds, and Greek and Latin texts in translation, from Hesiod in the seventh century BCE through the Roman period. Our focus will be on attitudes and their cultural manifestations, including differences between Greece and Rome, and changes over time. Modernity will, however, figure in the course, for we shall consider the ways in which the ancient evidence has played a role in modern debates.