Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Notes

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. Acquired the ability to use and assess critically a variety of ancient sources.
6. Acquired critical and analytical skills in dealing with a variety of primary, secondary and tertiary sources.
7. Acquired communication and collaborative skills through group tutorial presentations.

Assessment

Written work: 70%
Tests: 30%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Andrea Di Castro

Contact hours

20 one-hour lectures and 10 one-hour tutorials

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

History
Archaeology and ancient history

Prerequisites

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

Prohibitions

ATS3342