3390 - Euripides' Alcestis: A Pioneering Literary Psychology (Craig Miller)
Course Description
Instructor: Craig Miller
Students will be introduced to Euripides as a craftsman of the unexpected, a "modernist" who colors outside the lines in deeply personal ways for both ancient Greeks and modern audiences. Students will realize that what was once a predictable myth has become a platform for innovative, searing commentary on human nature, ethics, and societal norms. Euripides transforms the concept of surrogacy—the trading of one life for another—into a profound exploration of familial and trans-generational intimacy, challenging students to reflect on their own value systems and consider what, for whom, and under what circumstances they would self-sacrifice.
The dramatist aligns his characters along a continuum of god, demigod, and mortal, illustrating that nothing exists in isolation and that instability breeds further instability. This timeless lesson resonates strongly with contemporary issues, where fragility and interconnectedness are ever-present. Active participation in class discussion will be encouraged, as the instructor aims to engage students in deep reflection and dialogue. Please note that there will be no class recordings, as the focus is on live, collaborative interaction that enhances the learning experience.
Bio: I hold a doctorate in theology, specializing in classical/biblical languages, and have taught classics and religion at nearly all levels of academia for some 40 years, as well as for adult education programs, including OLLI, for nearly 30 years. I have participated in a range of scholarly projects, and as a curriculum specialist/methodologist for academia and the USG. I was a 30-year CIA careerist as cultural trends analyst and senior policy advisor to the Intelligence Community. My mantra is that any topic can be made accessible and enjoyable via student-centered teaching.