Cerberus to Argos, examining their symbolism in art and literature, and their significance in ancient Greek culture and spiritual beliefs.
About this Event

Explore the symbolic and cultural roles of dogs in Greek mythology, from fierce guardians to loyal companions and divine guides. We will examine the ways in which dogs feature in mythic narratives, serving as protectors of the underworld, such as Cerberus, the three-headed hound of Hades, and as faithful companions to gods and heroes, like Odysseus' dog, Argos. By studying the presence of dogs in ancient art, literature, and religious practices, students will uncover how these animals were not only significant to everyday Greek life but also imbued with profound symbolic meaning. Through close readings of classical texts and visual representations, we’ll investigate how dogs embody themes of loyalty, protection, and the boundary between the human and divine. Gain new insights into how ancient Greeks understood their relationships with animals and the larger moral, spiritual, and mythological world they inhabited.

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