AAH2220 - Alexander the Great and His World

Leader: Gillian Bowen

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2007 (Day)

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

12 x 1.5 hr lectures for 12 weeks and 12 x 1 hr tutorials

Prerequisites

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

Prohibitions

ARY3220