Ancient Studies Institute
WashU Arts & Sciences Pre-College Programs
In an industrialized world, very few of us ever stop to wonder about the processes that turn raw fiber into our daily clothes. However, for most of human history textile production made up the constant daily work of much of the population.
In this summer's Ancient Studies Institute, you will learn how the peoples of the ancient Mediterranean turned sheep and flax into cloaks and sails. Not only will you read a rich diversity of primary and secondary sources – from the Homeric poems to Socratic dialogues to cutting edge archaeological chemical analysis – you will put each new skill into practice in the studio. Over the course of two weeks, you will learn how to spin yarn, dye fiber, and weave cloth, eventually producing as a group an original textile made through ancient techniques. Through the lens of fiber, you will encounter the different ways that classicists and ancient historians find meaning in the surviving evidence. Along the way you will explore the sociocultural dimension of fiber work, especially its long history as the work of women and enslaved people.
If you are looking to build critical thinking and research skills while learning to appreciate the differences and similarities between the ancient and modern world this is program is ideal for you.
High School Summer Institute students live on campus in one of our top-ranked, air-conditioned residence halls. In addition to course work, students participate in specialized college readiness, community, and academic success enrichment activities.