Classical Writings

Definition

These are texts written during antiquity (ancient Greece or Rome) that have had a profound influence on European culture. They include works of literature, philosophy, history, mathematics etc.

Analogy

Classical writings are like classic movies - they've been around for ages but their themes still resonate today. They set standards for storytelling (or scientific method or philosophical thought), just like how classic films often define genres.

Related terms

Homer's Iliad & Odyssey: Epic poems from ancient Greece that depict heroes' journeys filled with trials & tribulations; they influenced later Western literary traditions.

Plato’s Republic: A Socratic dialogue written by Plato around 375 BC concerning justice (both individual justice & justice of city-states).

Aristotle’s Poetics: The earliest surviving work of dramatic theory which provides not only an analysis of tragedy but also a comprehensive insight into the nature of poetry.