Classics: Roman History/Civilization I

Political, social, cultural, and literary development of ancient Rome with assignments appropriate to the introductory level. Students may take CLAS 1360 and CLAS 2360 or equivalent HST courses in different semesters as long as the topics covered are substantially different.

Open to Degree and PACE students; Colocated with CLAS 2360, HST 1705 and HST 2705; Total combined enrollment: 108

A mixture of political, military, and social history, this course will introduce students to the principal issues, events, and personalities of Roman history from the end of the Roman Republic through late antiquity. The course begins with an overview of the end of the republic and the struggles that led to the emergence of figures such as Julius Caesar, Mark Antony, and Octavian, followed by an exploration of Augustus, the first roman emperor, and his reforms. In addition to learning about Roman expansion and the policies and personalities of individual emperors, we will examine the emergence of Christianity, the growth of the Byzantine Empire in the East, and narratives of decline, focusing on their construction and critique. Students will become acquainted with the variety and value of ancient and modern historical sources. Primary sources include literature (such as Livy, Cassius Dio, Tacitus, Vergil, Ovid, Josephus, Suetonius, Tertullian, Marcus Aurelius, Ammianus Marcellinus), historical documents (such as inscriptions and coins), and archaeological sites and artifacts (pottery, sculpture, Pompeii). The readings and lectures provide a narrative historical overview coupled with a thematic treatment of important aspects of Roman culture including war, politics, sport/gladiatorial games, family, slavery, religion, literature, art, engineering, gender, sexuality, inequality, and identity construction. Students who took CLAS 23, CLAS 122, HST 22, HST 122 in fall 2022 are welcome to register. The textbook will be the same book used in fall 2022 (The Romans. From Village to Empire. 2nd Edition, Boatwright, Gargola, Lenski, Talbot, eds). Please email the instructor if you have questions about registration.

Students are expected to complete all readings and attend class. Students should expect to spend approximately six hours a week on coursework per university policy regarding work required for a three-credit course, with additional time for assessments.

quizzes, three tests