University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 30

ECTS credits : 15

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: See http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/history/infoug/ugtimetable

Self-representation tends to be something that we take for granted in today's modern world: from 'selfies' on Instagram, to lifestyle blogs on the internet, to 'kiss and tell' celebrity exposÚs and published memoirs. What forms did inwardness, selfhood and self-representation take in Late Antiquity? This module examines how elite and non-elite individuals understood and represented 'the self ' between the fourth and early sixth centuries CE, with a focus on early Christian holy lives. We will explore 'the first introspective autobiography in Western letters': Augustine of Hippo's Confessions, as well as other less well-known first-person narratives / reported experiences (all in English translation), alongside visual and material evidence where relevant.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass at least 60 credits from {ME1003, ME1006, ME2003, HI2001, MH2002}

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1 x 2-hour seminar, plus 1 office hour.

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%


Re-assessment: 4,000-word essay = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor C Humfress
Module teaching staff: Prof C Humfress
Module coordinator email ch226@st-andrews.ac.uk