Module Provider: |
Classics |
Number of credits: |
20 [10 ECTS credits] |
Level: |
I (Intermediate) |
Terms in which taught: |
Autumn |
Module Convenor: |
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Pre-requisites: |
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Co-requisites: |
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Modules excluded: |
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Current from: |
2005/6 |
Aims:
This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the nature of ancient religious systems and their role in society, and to offer an overview of the range and development of cults and practices in the city of Rome, both 'pagan' and monotheistic', during the period of the late republic and early empire, through the study of both primary sources and modern interpretations. |
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:
identify and interpret the main religious practices of the Roman world;
appraise critically primary sources and interpretations used in the study of religious change over the period
locate and assemble material on the subjects of study;
organise materials and articulate arguments about them clearly and coherently in writing.
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Additional outcomes:
The module also aims to encourage the development of oral communication skills and the student's effectiveness in group situations. They will also develop their IT skills by use of bibliographical and other web resources and facilities such as Powerpoint |
Outline content:
The module covers both Roman polytheism and the monotheistic religion of the Jews, concluding with the emergence of Christianity. The focus is on the evidence relating to the city of Rome, but the provinces are also taken into account. At the start, there is an exploration of key concepts in the interpretation of the Roman civic cults - anthropomorphism, civic religion and animal sacrifice. The traditional Roman gods and their Greek and Italic backgrounds are reviewed. The module then moves on to examine the religious calendar, omens and divination, the connection between religion and politics at Rome, theories of religious decline, and the cult of the emperors. After this, the operation at Rome of empire-wide "salvation" cults is considered, especially Isis, Mithras and Judaism. |
Brief description of teaching
and learning methods:
The module will be taught by lectures and seminars with two contact hours per week.
Seminars will involve individual and group presentations of both written and visual material.
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Contact hours:
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Autumn |
Spring |
Summer |
| Lectures |
10 |
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| Tutorials/seminars |
10 |
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| Practicals |
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| Other contact (eg study visits) |
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| Total hours |
20 |
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| Number of essays or assignments |
1 |
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| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
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Assessment:
Coursework
Students will write one essay of c. 2,000 words to be submitted on the first day of the Spring term.
Relative percentage of coursework: 33%
Penalties for late submission
In accordance with University Policy
Examinations
One two hour paper requiring two answers.
Requirements for a pass
A grade of 40% overall.
Reassessment arrangements
Re-examination in September. Coursework will be carried forward if it bears a confirmed grade of 40% or more. Otherwise it must be resubmitted by 1st September.
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