ATS4345 - Research methods in classical antiquity - 2017

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, Alexander the Great's death and burial, and Christians in Rome under Nero.

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
7. Demonstrate an ability to use a variety of source material to produce a sustained piece of written work.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 288 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Dr Gillian Bowen

Ancient cultures

A major sequence in Archaeology and Ancient History

APG4345