CL2310 Roman History

Module Organisers: Professor Brian McGing, Dr. Shane Wallace, Dr. Hazel Dodge
Duration: All Year
Contact Hours: 32 lectures (2 per week), 6 seminars
Weighting: 10 ECTS
Assessment: Examination 80%, Continuous assessment (two written assignments) 20%

Overview and Aims:

In the Mediterranean world, the first three centuries of the Christian era constitute a period often regarded with admiration by later generations, especially by 19th century Europeans easily impressed by empire. The names of famous emperors roll off the tongue – Augustus, Nero, Trajan, Marcus Aurelius, Diocletian – and the idea of absolute power embodied, to some extent, in these men has fascinated analysts from the beginning. This module will examine aspects of the period, from the emperors themselves to the lowliest of slaves: matters of imperial politics and military strategy, economics and social concerns. There will be a mixture of lectures and small-group seminars conducted in teams. As with all advanced  modules the main emphasis is on analysis rather than description, and extensive individual reading is required.

Introductory Reading:

• D. Potter (ed), A Companion to the Roman Empire, Oxford 2009

Learning Outcomes:

On successful conclusion of this module, students should be able to demonstrate:

• Sound geographical knowledge of the Roman world
• Knowledge of the primary textual sources relevant to the module topic
• Familiarity with other types of relevant evidence (artistic and archaeological) and ability to integrate with them with the textual evidence
• Familiarity with, and ability to evaluate, the major theoretical approaches, debates and scholarship relevant to the module topics
• Ability to discuss the above, both orally and in writing, in a clear and scholarly manner, and to work effectively in teams.