Critical Ancient World Studies: The Case for Forgetting Classics

This book explores and elucidates critical ancient world studies (CAWS), a new model for the study of the ancient world that operates critically, setting itself against a long history of a discipline formulated to naturalize a hierarchical, white supremacist origin story for an imagined modern West. CAWS dismantles the structures of knowledge that have led to this privileging and questions the categories, ideas, themes, narratives, and epistemological structures that have been deemed objective and essential within the inherited discipline of classics. The contributions in this book offer a variety of situated, embodied perspectives on how to imagine a more critical discipline, rather than a unified single view. The volume is divided into four parts and uses these as spaces to propose disciplinary transformation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 19 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Critical Ancient World Studies (CAWS) is a groundbreaking approach to the study of the ancient world that challenges the traditional, hierarchical, and white supremacist narrative that has dominated the field for centuries. This innovative methodology seeks to reexamine the assumptions and methodologies of classical studies and/or classics, aiming to create a more critical and inclusive understanding of the past.

While CAWS acknowledges the historical impact of colonialism on the discipline, it goes beyond simply applying decolonial theory or seeking to uncover subaltern narratives. Instead, it aims to dismantle the structures of knowledge that have perpetuated this privilege and question the categories, ideas, themes, narratives, and epistemological structures that have been deemed objective and essential within the inherited discipline of classics.

The contributions in this book, written by an international group of researchers, offer a diverse range of situated, embodied perspectives on how to imagine a more critical discipline. The volume is divided into four parts: "Critical Epistemologies," "Critical Philologies," "Critical Time and Critical Space," and "Critical Approaches." These sections serve as spaces for proposing disciplinary transformation and offer a comprehensive framework for rethinking the study of antiquity.

One of the key strengths of CAWS is its commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration. The authors draw on a wide range of disciplines, including history, anthropology, sociology, literature, and cultural studies, to explore the complex and multifaceted nature of the ancient world. This approach allows for a more holistic understanding of the past and enables scholars to engage with a broader range of sources and perspectives.

Another important aspect of CAWS is its emphasis on the situatedness of knowledge. The authors recognize that the study of the ancient world is not an abstract exercise but is deeply embedded in the social, political, and cultural contexts of the time. By foregrounding the experiences and perspectives of marginalized communities, CAWS seeks to challenge the dominant narratives that have historically marginalized and excluded these groups.

Furthermore, CAWS challenges the notion of a unified and objective history. The authors argue that the ancient world was a complex and multifaceted place, shaped by a range of different cultures, religions, and ideologies. By recognizing the diversity of the ancient world, CAWS seeks to create a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of the past that recognizes the contributions of all individuals and communities.

In conclusion, Critical Ancient World Studies is a groundbreaking and essential contribution to the field of classical studies. By challenging the traditional narratives and methodologies of the past, CAWS seeks to create a more critical and inclusive understanding of the ancient world. The contributions in this book offer a wealth of insights and perspectives that will be valuable to scholars and practitioners working in the field, as well as to anyone interested in confronting Eurocentrism and promoting a more diverse and inclusive understanding of the past.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032120119