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CL1004   Myth and Community in Ancient Greek Literature and Culture

Academic year(s): 2023-2024

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: 12.00 noon

This module explores some of the most dynamic literary and artistic achievements of archaic and classical Greek culture (8th to 4th century BCE). Using a twin focus on myth and on ideas of community, the module ranges across Homeric epic, Athenian tragedy, Aristophanic comedy, and the philosophical writings of Plato, looking at a series of authors whose work has had a powerful influence over the later literary tradition right into the 20th century. We look among other things at the relationship between texts and images in the expression of cultural values; and we examine a series of major themes in Greek views of identity, morality, politics and religion. The module is meant both for students who intend to take Honours Classical Studies and for those who want a fascinating introduction to the poetry and art of the ancient Greek world. It is intended to be complemented by CL1005.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 32 lectures and 6 tutorials across the semester.

Scheduled learning hours: 38

Guided independent study hours: 162

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 teaching staff: Team taught

Intended learning outcomes

  • Identify and describe the characteristic features of the set texts / material culture of Archaic and Classical Greece
  • Describe and analyse the content, genre, narrative technique and style of the set texts; describe and analyse the technique, iconography, style, techniques of a range of material evidence of Archaic and Classical Greece
  • Analyse the interaction of these texts / material culture with their social, cultural, intellectual and historical context
  • Demonstrate the ability to relate literature and material culture of Archaic and Classical Greece
  • Analyse, critically evaluate and discuss relevant scholarship
  • Devise coherent and well-reasoned arguments both in oral and written form on the primary evidence and scholarship