University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: TBC

This module explores the political, social and cultural history of the Empire of New Rome, centred on Constantinople, in the sixth century. Themes covered will include: external relations with established neighbours (Sasanian Persia) and recent arrivals (Ostrogoths in Italy, Slavs and Avars in the Balkans); contemporary theological controversies; society and economy in Egypt and the eastern Mediterranean; plague and holy men; artistic and literary culture (primarily through the works of the historian Procopius); faction, riot and urban disorder; imperial ideology; gender and representations of Theodora. Translated extracts from sources in Greek, Latin, Syriac, Armenian and Coptic will be studied. Some material, numismatic and papyrological evidence will also be introduced.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact:

Scheduled learning hours: 20

Guided independent study hours: 280

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews:

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 60%
Practical examinations : 8%
Coursework: 32%

Personnel