131-126 Great Civilisations: Athens and Rome

Formerly available as 131-015. Students who have completed 131-015 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

This subject surveys the history and institutions of Classical Greece (Athens, Sparta and other states) and Rome down to the early Empire. Special attention will be paid to the formulation and development of the political notions fundamental to Western culture, as well as cultural history. Students who complete this subject should be able to place the classical ages of Greece and Rome (c. 500 BC-100 AD) in context and perspective; have gained basic training in source criticism and essay writing; and have some familiarity with fundamental questions in the philosophy of history.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A written research essay of 2000 words 50% (due mid semester), reflective exercise 2000 words 40% (end of semester) and tutorial participation 10%.