Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - HUM 232 D100

Religions of Ancient Greece and Rome (3)

Class Number: 2559

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Tue, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Fri, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduces the religions of ancient Greece and Rome. Archaeological materials, ancient texts and art are used to examine Graeco-Roman religions within their historical framework and understand how ancient peoples experienced religion. Examines the extent to which specific social, political and cultural developments impacted the religious landscape. Students with credit for HS 232 or HUM 216 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities.

COURSE DETAILS:


This course provides a basic introduction to Greco-Roman religions. Emphasis is placed on the development of Greek and Roman religions within their historical framework through an analysis all of the available source materials from each period (archaeology, literary texts, art history, etc..). Special attention is given to close readings of ancient sources (in translation), which give us a glimpse as to how ancient themselves experienced religion. The course also focuses on both the continuities and changes in the religious expression of in ancient Greece and Rome, and the extent to which specific social, political and cultural developments impacted the religious landscape of the periods in question. In addition, students will become familiar with the standard terminology in the study of ancient religions – such as, “religion”, “myth”, ritual”, etc. – and apply these theoretical concepts to a comparative study of ancient and modern religions. We will also engage in a comparative analysis of the religions of Greece and Rome and explore the ways in which the polytheistic world came to become monotheistic (i.e. the rise of Christianity).

Grading

  • Assignments 30%
  • Midterm Exam 30%
  • Final Exam 40%

NOTES:

This course fulfills the Global Humanities requirements for the

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html 

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need classroom or exam accommodations are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Students with Disabilities (1250 Maggie Benston Centre) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion. 

Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability. 

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

S. Price, Religion of the Ancient Greeks (Cambridge, 2016) (E-book available through SFU library)

V. Warrior, Roman Religion (Cambridge, 2006) (E-book available through SFU library)

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.