ARY3950

Ptolemaic and Roman Egypt ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Gillian Bowen

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit examines the profound changes Egyptian culture experienced during the periodfrom 332 BCE to the end of the fourth century CE. It examines the interaction between the Greek-speaking elite and the indigenous population, Hellenism and pharaonic culture, and the impact upon the heterogenous culture which developed as a result of this by the Roman occupation and the resultant changes which were imposed. It will draw upon and analyse a wide range of sources from the archaeological to papyrological and literary. A major theme is the way in which aspects of the indigenous culture survived and even flourished until the advent of Christianity.

Objectives: On successful completion of this unit the student will have: 1. A detailed knowledge of Egyptian culture during the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. 2. An understanding of the complexity and changing nature of Egyptian culture as a result first of the introduction of Hellenism and then the Roman occupation upon traditional culture. 3. The ability to appraise critically ancient and secondary source material, and combine a variety of types of evidence in the analysis of ancient culture. 4. Independent research skills and the ability to undertake individual research projects, which are presented in a clearly expressed and cogent manner.

Assessment: Research essay (2500 words): 55% + Document analysis (500 words): 10% + Examination (1.5 hours): 35%

Contact Hours: 3.5 hours (2 x 1 hour lectures and 1 x 1.5 hour tutorial) per weeks