Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The unit focuses upon Athens during the 5th century BCE, the period when, in a burst of creativity, her citizens attained their greatest achievements. The unit offers an historical framework within which to explore aspects of Greek culture: literature, drama, art and architecture, religion and philosophy, and the Athenians system of government. The subject incorporates a wide selection of primary source material. Students will be encouraged to identify ways in which Athenian culture has impacted upon the western world.

Objectives

On successful completion of the unit students will have acquired:

1. a knowledge of the historical context within which 5th century Athens flourished.
2. An understanding of the process by which Athens established an empire which, in turn, facilitated her innovative artistic and cultural achievements.
3. An understanding of the principles of Greek art, architecture, and rhetoric, the underlying concepts of philosophy and religion, the nature of Greek historiography, the Athenian concept of radical democracy and its variance in western ideals.
4. Critical and analytical skills, which enable the application of textual, epigraphic, archaeological, and numismatic methodologies.
5. Communication skills through debates and a mock ekklesia meeting.

Assessment

Written work: 60% (3000 words)
Tutorial presentation/participation: 20%
Test (1 hour): 20%

Chief examiner(s)

Gillian Bowen

Contact hours

12 x 90 minute lectures and 12 x 1 hour tutorials

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

History
Classical studies
Archaeology and ancient history

Prerequisites

A first-year sequence in Archaeology & Ancient History or permission.

Prohibitions

AAH3800