Higher Classical Studies

Module 5.1 – Chronology and Elementary Polictical Concepts module title

The historical background to the course: essential names and dates and an introduction to political theory.

Module 5.2 – Ancient Political Systems

The constitutional organisation of Athenian democracy and of the Roman Republic down to 31 BC; the disintegration of the Republic and its replacement by the imperial monarchy from 31 BC onwards; the government of the Roman Empire.

Module 5.3 – Status and status dissonance in Athens and Rome

The legal and social status, rights and duties of citizens, women, slaves and others in ancient Athenian and Roman society.

Module 5.4 – Athenian and Roman Imperialism

The Athenian Aegean hegemony and its transformation into the Athenian empire; Roman imperial expansion; taxation and tribute; administration and revolt.

Module 5.5 – The Ruling Elites

Aristocrats and demagogues in classical Athens; political leadership in republican and imperial Rome; some representative political careers.

Module 5.6 – Buildings and Sculpture as Political Propaganda

The fifth-century Athenian building programme; the Augustan building programme in Rome.

Module 5.7 – Euripides

Medea

Module 5.8 – Aristophanes

Lysistrata

Module 5.9 – Sophocles

Antigone