How do remote works address current concerns? This course introduces major works of world literature (pre-1700) and encourages consideration of their relevance. Seminars take a thematic approach; readings may include works by Homer, Virgil, Sophocles, Augustine, Lady Murasaki, Dante, Christine de Pizan, Chaucer, Machiavelli, Cervantes, Montaigne, Galileo, Shakespeare, Descartes, others.