Spring 2025

Augur’s Omens & Aesop’s Fables: Animals in Life and Thought in the Ancient World

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Subject: Classics/History

Instructor: Dr. Kyle McLeister, B.A., M.A., PhD, Contract Lecturer in Classics

Description: 

From religious practices to artistic works and beyond, animals were part of nearly every aspect of life and thought in the Greek and Roman World.

In this course we’ll look at the role of animals in sacrifices and their role in augury, where they were viewed as omens that the Romans felt could reveal the will of the gods. We’ll look at some of the many depictions of animals in art, and what these cantell us about the way that the Greeks and Romans understood the natural world. Additionally, we'll analyze the myriad roles that animals played in classical literature and how these shed light on expectations and ideals for human life (e.g. through fablesdesigned to impart moral lessons, as metaphors/ allegories, etc.).

We will also explore the wide variety of attitudes that the Greeks and Romans expressed towards animals, which ranged from viewing them as mere tools that existed for human use to viewing them as rational, moral beings deserving of respect and just treatment (the latter view even leading some to advocate for vegetarianism).Note: while this course has a similar topic as “From Aristotle to the Arena: Animals in the Greek and Roman World” (Winter 2025 session), they cover completely different material and are independent from one another.

Adult Development and Aging

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Subject: Psychology

Instructor: Dr. Janel Fergusson, B.A., M.A., PhD

Description: 

Adult development explores the breadth of adult life, including relationships, career and retirement, predictors of successful aging, end of life care, memory and cognitive changes, and loneliness. Strategies to promote successful aging will be discussed and examined.

This course will explore the changes we experience throughout adult life, from young adulthood to end of life.

The Renaissance: Western Europe and Beyond... Beyond… Beyond?

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Subject: Art History

Instructor: Dr. Sandra Herron, B.A., M.A., PhD

Description: 

The Renaissance is so often portrayed from a Eurocentric view, but was the European Renaissance the only great movement of art, science, and culture in the 16th century or did it simply have great press? By exploring both within and without 16th century

Europe, we get a sense of how outside influences changed and propelled European developments and how European culture influenced other cultures. When we explore the greater story of political, religious, and commercial interests as reflected in material culture, we can better understand the expanding world the 16th century presented.

Class Outline:

1. Get out of my backyard!
2. Great changes are on the way!
3. Craftsmen are artists now? That body looks real.
4. What are you creating over there?
5. Follow the money; luxury trade from far afield.
6. You have nice things; certainly, you didn’t create that.
7. Dear terrifying foreign neighbours: Stay on your side of the fence.
8. There is land and people over there?

The Economics of Conscious Life

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Subject: Economics

Instructor: Dr. Hongbin Zhang, M.A., Faculty Member and Lecturer in Economics

Description: 

Who says Economics is dreadful? Not us! During this course, we will enjoy learning the famous theories and principles of economics in a fun and interactive way. The best part? No numbers will be mentioned! We will grasp the most important definitions and models in a number-free way.

Upon completing the course, you will see life and the economy with fresh eyes. You will be more confident with decision-making and advice-offering once you master this new language of economics!

Class Outline:

1. Let the Journey Begin: Some Smart Principles.
2. Perfection is Not Our Thing: Talking about Optimization
3. Who is Steering That Wheel?: Knowing the Market Forces
4. A Rose, Please: Externalities of the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
5. The Preciousness in Us: The Human Capital
6. The Comers: Economics of Immigration
7. We Shall Dance: Women and Men & Careers and Families
8. Let Us Talk About Money: Love it, Hate it, or Just Be Neutral

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