HIST 430 – Ancient Rome: Civilization and Legacy

Description
The 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 focuses on the development of Roman institutions and political systems, while the second covers the social structures 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 look at Roman literature and religion, art and architecture, and philosophy. When possible, we give a privileged place to primary sources in translation, letting the characters of this great historical drama speak for themselves. Our readings are supplemented by slides, videos and an overnight field trip to Rome.

Learning Outcomes
At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to:
– Define the basic events of Roman History, from the foundation of Rome to the fall of the Empire
– Be 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
– Understand the political, religious and intellectual heritage of Roman society and use it as a means of interpreting the human experience through history
– 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.

Course descriptions may be subject to occasional minor modifications at the discretion of the instructor.

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