HIST 430 – Ancient Rome: Civilization and Legacy

This course is an introduction to the history and culture of the Roman world, from Rome’s beginnings in myth and legend through its rise to domination of the Mediterranean world, its violent conversion from a Republic to an Empire, and the long success of that Empire down to its collapse in the fifth century A.D. The first part of the semester will focus on the development of Roman institutions and political system, while the second will be devoted to the social structure of the Roman Empire and the daily life of its people. As we search together to unravel the historical significance of the Roman achievement, we will look at Roman literature and religion, art and architecture, and philosophy. When possible, we will give a privileged place to primary sources in translation, letting the characters of this great historical drama speak for themselves. Our readings will be supplemented by slides, videos, and a field trip to Rome.

• Define and master the basic events of Roman History, from the foundation of Rome to the fall of the Empire
• Become familiar with the daily life, values and social attitudes of the ancient Romans during the Republic and early centuries of the Empire
• Trace the origins of many aspects of Western European culture and of modern Western society in general
• Gain understanding of the political, religious and intellectual heritage of Roman society and use it as a means of interpreting the human experience through history
• Recognize and understand how much of the English language is affected by Latin vocabulary
• Be able to translate historical knowledge from the narrow focus of the course to the much wider context of being active and acquainted citizens of today’s world.