Leader: Gillian Bowen

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit explores the current state of knowledge of aspects of Egypt's history in the wake of Alexander the Great's conquest. Themes include the response of the Egyptians to the introduction of hellenism and their interaction with the Macedonian and subsequent Roman overlords. It focuses upon the continuation of ancient cult practices within a multi-cultural environment and the subtle change in the nature of Egyptian society. Aspects of sex, gender definition and role assignment are explored in relation to the roles of the Ptolemaic queens. Literary, documentary and archaeological sources are analysed to identify and account for the changes, exploring internal and external influences.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students will be able to demonstrate:

1. A thorough knowledge of the available historical and documentary sources.

2. A critical appraisal of primary, secondary and tertiary source material.

3. An understanding of how to read and appraise papyrological evidence.

4. The facility to explore complex cultural issues combining a variety of data which need detailed and careful analysis.

5. Sophisticated research skills in the examination of a series of related but distinct topics.

Assessment

Bibliographic review essay (3000 words): 35%
Research essay (6000 words): 65%