Study Abroad

Greece: Myth, Ideology, and Symbolic Spaces

June 6 - 21, 2009

This course will examine how ancient Greek myth-as it appears in literature, art, and architecture-has combined with symbolic space in order to communicate a range of cultural ideologies over the course of history. As they visit a range of ancient sites, students will consider ethical, religious, and political issues that are identified with these particular locations in ancient Greece.

In the course of our travels and exploration, students will gain knowledge of the significance of monumental or sacred sites in the ancient world, the myths that correspond with them, and the sorts of symbolic meanings those sites have carried at various moments in history since their first construction. In this way, this study abroad experience will give students a site-specific and general sense of how public space is invested with meaning, and how it can be used to convey cultural ideals or ideological discourses.

The program features visits to Athens, Tolo, Corinth, Olympia, Paros, Delphi, and Delos where students will explore the symbolic spaces of ancient ruins and art. Highlights include visits to the Acropolis, the National Archaeological Museum, the Palace of Mycenae, Epidaurus and more.

Click here to view Dr. Ballengee's program website.

Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Ballengee - Towson University English Dept. and Co-director of the Cultural Studies Program . Dr. Ballengee specializes in classical literature and mythology, rhetoric, and visual culture and has significant experience travelling in Greece and the surrounding region.

Course: ENGL 471 Greece: Myth, Ideology, and Symbolic Spaces (3 credits). Students can earn CLST 370 (3 credits) instead of ENGL 471.

Prerequisites for the class include ENGL 102 or ENGL 190.

TU students may receive Honors credit for their study abroad experience - click here for more information.

Cost:*$4,350 includes tuition (3 credits), health insurance, housing, roundtrip airfare, breakfast daily. Additional costs include $150 study abroad fee, meals, personal spending money for shopping.

*The Towson University Study Abroad Office reserves the right to make any necessary changes including adjustments in cost in the event that unforeseen circumstances arise.

Click here for information about scholarships.

Application Deadline : MARCH 15, 2009. Application available shortly. Admission is on a rolling basis. Early application is advised as space is limited.

Application Process: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 is required for admission to this program. Prerequisites include ENGL 102 or ENGL 190 or permission of the instructor.

Fill out an application (PDF) and submit it to the TU Study Abroad Office. $250 deposit required at time of application. Non-TU students must also submit a completed Non-Degree Enrollment Application (PDF).

For more information: Contact the TU Study Abroad Office or Dr. Jennifer Ballengee,

Study Abroad Office
Administration Building, 2nd Floor
Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Phone: 410-704-2451

Fax: 410-704-4703
Email: studyabroad@towson.edu