AAM4100 - Research methods in classical antiquity

Leader: Dr Gillian E. Bowen

Offered

Not offered in 2008

Synopsis

This unit examines a variety of methodological approaches to studying the ancient classical world: Greece, the Hellenistic kingdoms and Rome. Categories of data studied include: historiography, numismatic, epigraphic, papyrological, and material remains. The unit is organised around a series of case studies; these include aspects of Athens under Peisistratos and Perikles, the Hellenistic world in the reign of Ptolemy II, and Rome under Gaius Caligula.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will be expected to:

1. Have an understanding of the variety of data available for accessing the ancient classical world;
2. Have developed a sound approach to a using a wide range of methodologies in researching the ancient past;
3. Have an understanding of the different historiographic approaches of the authors of the three cultures studied;
4. Have well-developed textual analysis skills for each of the cultures studied;
5. Demonstrate an ability to use coins, inscriptions, papyri and objects to reconstruct aspects of, or events in, the past;
6. Have developed good presentation skills; and
7. Demonstrate an ability to use a variety of source material to produce a sustained piece of written work.

Assessment

Research essay(6000 words): 60%; Seminar paper: oral and written (2000 words): 20%; Text critique (1000 words): 10%; Seminar/workshop preparation and participation: 10%.

Contact hours

One one-hour lecture and one one-hour seminar/workshop per week for 13 weeks.

Prerequisites

A major sequence in Archaeology and Ancient History

Co-requisites

AAM4740

Prohibitions

AAH4100