A CLASSICAL EDUCATION ONLINE
& In FLORENCE
Classics Abroad Florence
The creation of classical antiquity
Location
Florence, Italy
Overview
Our signature summer course for undergraduates unlocking the secrets of classical antiquity and the history, art and literature of Florence. On this journey over 1500+ years, you will draw links between ancient and modern Italy, sharpen your research skills and deepen your understanding of how "antiquity" was transformed during the Renaissance. You'll never look at the classical world in the same way again!
What's the link between Classics and Florence? Not only does Florence have its own ancient history dating back to the Etruscans, but it is also known as the birthplace of the Renaissance i.e. the "rebirth" of classical antiquity. An insight into this period, is an insight into 'Classics' as we know it: Which ancient texts were discovered and how? Whose ideas were considered important and whose were overlooked? How was myth translated into art?
A Typical Day
Seminars (9.30 - 12.30)
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Transmission of Classical Literature
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Petrarch, Catullus and Humanism
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The Genre of Biography: On Famous Men and Women
Lunch (12.30 - 2)
Site visit or workshop (2 - 4.30)
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Ancient fresco-making workshop in Florentine art studio
Optional Cultural Programme (6+)
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Italian Aperitivo (6 - 7) and Live concert in an amphitheatre (9 - 10)
Cultural Programme
In the evenings, students are free to immerse themselves in the dolce vita alongside their studies and join optional activities on our Cultural Programme, which compiles relevant local events such as life-drawing classes, library lectures, language drop-ins, live music and film screenings and tips to gain access to authentic Florentine nightlife for students to explore independently.
Our Approach
Classics Abroad is a dynamic combination of classroom-based study and first-hand experiences in context. At Forte Academy, we combine engaging pedagogy with academic rigour, placing a strong emphasis on primary sources and building tools for independent thinking. Our international tutors embody the passion and intellectual curiosity that we hope to inspire in others! Previous seminars include: Piazza della Signoria: Public Sculpture, Power & Mythology, Machiavelli's Classical Authors, Virgil & Dante, Classics & Christianity, Latin Love Elegy feat. Modern Rap, Pliny & Renaissance Art, Defences of Helen and Eve.
*Flights, accommodation & meals except those listed are not included. Students must be 18 years old at time of travel.
What's Included?*
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Full timetable of interactive seminars on the classical tradition delivered by specialists across Florentine history, literature, art, language, spirituality & science!
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Specific sessions tailored towards building critical thinking skills and myth-busting.
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Site visits to major sites of importance linked to course content including The Uffizi, Palazzo Pitti, Boboli Gardens and Palazzo Vecchio and some guided visits.
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Hands-on Renaissance art workshop (3 hours), where you will learn an ancient painting technique and take home your masterpiece!
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Manuscript-making workshop and library visit to discover the art of being a scribe.
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Access to a Cultural Programme of optional suggested events in Florence such as outdoor film and music events, library lectures, language drop-ins (Italian & Latin) and life-drawing for the evening.
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4 group lunches.
Fees & How to Apply
Full Fee: £895
Application status: Closed
Please complete an application form to be considered for a place on this course. Places are limited will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
Accommodation
Florence boasts a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from hostels to single rooms to studio flats. We can help advise current students on finding a home base for the week within walking distance of our classroom in the vibrant city centre. We can also put Classics Abroad students in touch with each other with a view to finding shared accommodation.
