For four weeks during summer break of 2025, I aided Classics professor Clara Hardy in research for her Argument and Inquiry class on reception of Greek mythology. My role as a summer research partner included conducting 15 hours of research per week. I examined a variety of modern interpretations of Greek myths, including books, movies, and TV. I ended up focusing the majority of my research on the Orpheus and Eurydice myth, with a larger focus on the journeys of female characters in media. The main themes that I noticed that could be discussed in class are love, loss/grief, identity, and selfishness. Specifically, how these themes can shape one’s actions.
My responsibilities as a summer research partner included working with several other students each week on a particular focus, such as heroes, monsters, the underworld, etc. We would each read and watch agreed upon materials that fit the theme of the week, and later on review them using different criteria. Important questions that we considered were: How accessible is this media to beginners in classics? What is the overall quality of this work? Will this be relevant to the course?
It was extremely interesting for me to compare the modern retellings and interpretations that I watched and read with the ancient versions of each myth. Oftentimes, modern issues such as women’s empowerment, capitalism, and queer identity were introduced through the lens of ancient myths. One such piece of media that I was introduced to through my research was “KAOS”, a modern retelling of Orpheus and Eurydice in the form of a dark-comedy TV show. KAOS introduces the idea that the all-powerful gods serve as a corrupting force to humanity, because they will do whatever it takes to remain in control. The female main characters, Eurydice (Riddy), and Ariadne (Ari), embark upon a journey of self-discovery as they search for identity and purpose beyond the roles that are assigned to them.
As someone who is passionate about classics, this summer research position was the perfect way to combine academic research with fun and individuality. I was able to research topics I was interested in, and pick the media that I focused on studying each week. Working with my peers was also one of my favorite parts about this position, because I found it to be quite valuable to hear their opinions and engage in lively discussions.