Encountering the Classical World

Module code: AH7702

This module re-examines key structures of ancient societies and aspects of their material contexts. It challenges students to question and reassess the concept of ‘classical antiquity’, exploring the history of the ‘classical’ disciplines and the ways in which this disciplinary history has shaped our understanding of key structures and how we approach them today. Themes and trends in research will be considered, as well as a range of approaches to the past, together with areas which are the focus of current debates in preparation for module AH7704.

By the end of this course, you will be able to demonstrate a critical understanding of major structural features of ancient societies, and of the development of the ‘classical’ disciplines and the ‘classical’ tradition; be familiar with key themes in the study of antiquity and key approaches to its study; and be able to engage with current debates in scholarship.

Assessment for this module involves a critical review of a piece of modern scholarship and an essay on a topic agreed with the module co-ordinator.