107-410 Byzantium in the Sixth Century

Formerly available as 107-104 or 104-231/331. Students who have completed 107-104 or 104-231/331 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

37.5 points at second/third-year in classics and archaeology see Prerequisites for third year. Admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth-year honours see Honours entry for fourth year.

This subject focuses on the continuity (or otherwise) of the classical tradition and the conflict between (and the fusion of) Christianity and Classicism. Students will discuss whether the successes and failures of the period offer an explanation for the end of antiquity and for the beginnings of medievalism and the Dark Ages of the 7th century. Students should become familiar with the achievements of the period, such as the codification of Roman law, the invention of AD dating, the building of Hagia Sophia and other churches, the mosaics at Ravenna and elsewhere, the re-conquest of Vandal Africa and Gothic Italy; but also with the fear and pessimism, represented by Procopius' Secret History, predictions of the end of the world, the plague of 542 and the Nika riots.

An essay of 2000 words and a 2-hour examination for 3rd year. A class paper and an essay totalling 3000 words and a 2-hour examination for 4th year.

• Procopius, Secret History. Penguin.