As an important branch of Humanities, Classics or Classical Studies deal with aspects like literature, language, art, history of the ancient Mediterranean times, with special reference to ancient Rome and Greece . However in conservative sense, Classics are identified with the ancient Roman and Greek literary works.
As a significant literary branch, Classics have two major categorizations, namely Western and Eastern Classics. Some Western Classics like Homer's “The Iliad” and “The Odyssey” are age-old compositions, making a turning point in the history of Classical Literature .
Classics reveal the conventional views and communal clashes existent in the ancient society, hence, are well-loved tales and widely read. Some Classical works also reflect certain revolutionary thoughts or truths prevalent in the ancient days. Generally, Classical literatures are identified with a radical philosophical or social change that had occurred in some historical times.
Classical Literatures are known for their unique characterizations and witty plot developments. Hence their popularity remains to be the same down the ages. Classics are enjoyed by all, irrespective of ages.
Some well-known Classical authors are:
- William Shakespeare (Othello, King Lear, Macbeth, Tempest, King Lear, All's Well That Ends Well, etc.)
- John Milton ( Paradise Lost)
- Dante Alighieri (The Divine Comedy)
- Vergil (Aeneid)
- Geoffrey Chaucer (The Canterbury Tales)
- Niccolò Machiavelli (The Prince)
- Jonathan Swift (Gulliver's Travel)
- Nathaniel Hawthorne (The Scarlet Letters)
Classical Literature will remain popular down the ages, no matter what happens. This is because they deal with topics that are realistic and true in all times.
