University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 11.00 am

This module provides a wide-ranging introduction to the history and society of the ancient Greek world and to the sources (archaeological, epigraphical, literary) on which the study of Greek history depends. The period covered runs from the origins of the Greek city-state in the archaic period, through the heyday of Athens' empire and democracy in the fifth century, to Alexander the Great's conquest of the Persian Empire. The module examines both the political and military history of the Greek world in this period and a range of other themes: amongst them, the impact of slavery on Greek culture, the distinctive Greek construction of sexuality, religious beliefs and practices, and the nature of Greek interactions with other, non-Greek peoples. It also looks beyond the major centres (Athens, Sparta) at a range of other lesser-known cities and sites. All sources are studied in translation, and the module does not take for granted any previous study; the objective of the module is to give you both the wide background and the tools of source criticism required to pursue the study of ancient history further.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 33 lectures and 7 tutorials across the semester.

Scheduled learning hours: 40

Guided independent study hours: 160

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr S Lewis
Module teaching staff: Team taught
Module coordinator email sl50@st-andrews.ac.uk