The M. A. in Greek requires ten courses (thirty credits) in Greek at the graduate
level, completion of an independent reading list, demonstration of proficiency
in a modern foreign language (usually French or German), and comprehensive written
and oral examinations.
Course work. Two to four courses a year are normally available to graduate
students. A thesis or independent paper option is also available, for three
or six credits, but requires departmental permission.
Modern Language. Proficiency is demonstrated by a one-hour translation
test, in which the use of a dictionary is allowed. This test does not form part
of the comprehensive exams. It may be taken at a student's earliest convenience,
the sooner the better.
Comprehensive exams. These include a two-hour exam in Greek poetry,
a two-hour exam in Greek prose, and an oral exam.
Each written exam requires the translation of three passages and the composition
of an essay about one of them; the essay asks a student to identify the passage
in its literary context and the author in his historical context. Written exams
are based on the reading list and on a student's course work. Use of a dictionary
is not allowed.
The oral exam is open-ended, testing whether a student can keep a conversaton
going for an hour on the topic of Greek literature in its historical context.
A supplementary reading list suggests books on political, social, and literary
history.
Summary of requirements.
30 credits of coursework (may include 3 or 6 credit thesis)
Proficiency test in a modern foreign language
Two-hour written examination on Greek poetry
Two-hour written examination on Greek prose
One-hour oral examination
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