Monica Cyrino

Monica Cyrino is a Professor of Classics at The University of New Mexico, where she serves as Chair. Her work bridges ancient Greek and Latin literature with film and television studies, focusing on classical reception in popular culture. She has authored and edited several influential publications on this topic.

• Education:
• Ph.D., Classical Philology, Yale University (1992)
• M.Phil., Classical Philology, Yale University (1988)
• M.A., Classical Philology, Yale University (1986)
• B.A., Classical Languages, University of California, Berkeley (1984)

Her research interests include ancient Greek poetry, Eros and mythology, and classical themes in cinema. She explores how modern media reinterprets ancient narratives, particularly in films like Gladiator and television series such as Rome and STARZ Spartacus.

Monica Cyrino’s recent publications analyze cinematic depictions of classical antiquity, including topics like gender dynamics, historical accuracy, and modern cultural engagement with ancient Rome and Greece. Her edited volumes and articles provide critical frameworks for understanding these intersections.

• Scientific Awards:
  • American Philological Association’s Excellence in Teaching Classics (1998-99)
  • UNM Alumni Association Faculty Teaching Award (2002)
  • UNM Presidential Teaching Fellowship (2000-2002)
  • UNM Gunter Starkey Teaching Award (1998-1999)
  • UNM Outstanding Teacher of the Year (1994-1995)

She teaches hundreds of students in Classics and leads seminars in Greek and Latin. Her textbook A Journey Through Greek Mythology (2008) is widely used, and she has served as a consultant on major film and TV productions.