Scholarly Interests:

My research examines human-animal interactions in the ancient Mediterranean world, with a primary focus on equids. My work explores the social, cultural, and economic role of equids as a marker of cultural and identity and cross-cultural interaction. To accomplish this, I make use of ancient texts, material culture, and experimental archaeology to better understand the historical human-equine relationship, and the role that these animals played in the contexts of war, sport, and daily life. This interdisciplinary approach to my research also shapes my teaching interests, as my classes explore connection between the ancient and modern worlds through our interactions and relationships with the natural world, as well as the ways in which humans have created and shared stories and cultural legacies through diverse media.

Teaching Statement:

My approach to teaching is one that uses the historical past to better understand and explore what it means to be human. This allows my students to view the wider implications of cross-cultural interactions, while at the same time finding their own places within these global exchanges. Students are encouraged to take a ‘bigger picture’ approach by viewing a specific event, object, or text not just in the context of a particular place or time, but also in relation to 'human-ness'. I feel that this is a fundamental skill as society is becoming ever more connected through globalization, and our students need to be able to think critically from both a nuanced and broad perspective. To facilitate this approach, my classes include both formal lectures and activities to encourage student participation. I introduce students to a topic and the general theories, ideas, or significance surrounding the material before giving them time to explore their own understanding or relationship with the subject.

Relevant Publications and/or Presentations:

Willekes, C. (2016) The Horse in the Ancient World: From Bucephalus to the Hippodrome. London: I.B. Tauris

Willekes, C. (2023) “The Army and Warfare.” In D. Ogden (ed.) The Cambridge Companion to Alexander the Great. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Willekes, C. (2022) “Feminizing the Hippodrome: Finding the Female in a Male World.” In A. Ropa and T. Dawson (eds.) Historical Practices in Horsemanship and Equestrian Sports. Budapest: Trivent.

Willekes, C. (2021) “Cavalry Battle in Greece and the Hellenistic East.” In W. Heckel et al (eds.) A Companion to Greek Warfare. Oxford: Wiley

Willekes, C. and Delpeut, L. (2023) “Realism as a Representation Strategy in Depictions of Horses in Ancient Greek and Egyptian Art: How Purpose Influences Appearance.” Arts Special Issue Animals in Ancient Material Culture vol. 3.

Recent or Relevant Grants, Honours or Awards:

Emerging Scholar Award, Mount Royal University Office of Research, Scholarship, and Community Engagement