ARY2220

Alexander the Great and His World ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Gillian Bowen

Offered:
Not offered in 2005.

Synopsis: Alexander the Great is an enigmatic figure whose conquests transformed the eastern Mediterranean world. This unit attempts to come to an understanding of Alexander, his campaigns against the Persians, his successes and failures, the machinations of his generals following his death, and the new world order that ensued. It will explore the myths that surrounded Alexander and the way in which he was emulated by the Roman emperors. His cultural ideology was the basis of Hellenism, the major facets of which will be examined.

Objectives: On successful completion of the unit, students will have 1. gained an understanding of historiographic traditions concerning Alexander the Great 2. acquired an understanding of the importance of the non-literary sources for the period: coins, art, architecture, epigraphy. 3. examined the impact of Alexander's conquest and subsequent policies for the entire eastern Mediterranean world 4. gained an understanding of the nature of the emerging Hellenistic kingdoms. 5. the ability to use and assess a variety of ancient sources 6. proficiency in critical reading and writing skills

Assessment: Tutorial participation and one presentation (1,000 words): 20%; Research essay on provided topic (2,500 words): 50%; Document test (500 words): 15%; Test (500 words): 15%;

Contact Hours: 2 one-hour lectures and a one-hour tutorial per week over a 10 week period

Prerequisites: First year sequence in Archaeology, Classical Studies or History, or other discipline with approval

Prohibitions: ARY3220