Angie Pierre ’25
Ancient Greek Vase Scenes and its Representation of Racism within Ancient Greek Society
Angie Pierre ’25, Global Studies and History major
Faculty mentor: Dr. Elizabeth Palazzolo, History and Classics
Can the term ‘race’ be used in the context of antiquity? Scholars such as Frank M. Snowden Jr. believe modern notions of race should not be applied in the studies of Classics. However, race was an important feature within Ancient Greek society, as it was used as a distinction between those who were Greek and non-Greek. Within Ancient Greek literature and art, Black people were depicted often. For instance, in Homer’s epic poems, The Iliad and The Odyssey, Ethiopians are praised for their piety. Nonetheless, the characterization of mythological figures from Africa or descended from Africans frequently aligns with the Greek somatic norm. My research aims to illuminate how the conflicting depictions of race in figures such as the Danaids, Princess Andromeda, and Heracles can demonstrate a complex racialized categorization in Ancient Greece. This presentation focuses on opposing portrayals of Heracles in vase scenes and the underlying themes used within it to demonstrate the developing racism within Greek society.
Poster Presentation: Wednesday, April 23, 1:30 – 3 p.m.
