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HIS-1004: The history of Antiquity Work Load
10 credits (ECTS) | Type of course
Theoretical. | Level of course/Year of study
Normally first or second year. | Language of instruction
Norwegian. | Examination semester
Autumn
| Objectives
The course can be included as an elective subject in a bachelor of History, as well as a subsidiary subject in the culture and history of Antiquity, Art History, all disciplines of Social Science, and Archaeology.
| Contents
Of the many cultures that developed during Antiquity, the cultures surrounding the Mediterranean have contributed most to European history and identity. The city-states of Greece developed new forms of government, and new artistic and intellectual forms of expression. Their economic ambitions led to the establishment of colonies which spread Greek culture far beyond the Greek mainland. This vast empire, eventually conquered by the Roman military power, was built on this cultural and economical foundation. The Romans managed to establish and maintain a relative stable state that covered the Mediterranean area. They had an effective local and central governmental system, which embraced and incorporated cultural and ethnic diversity, and at the same time, fronted a clear Roman identity. During the Romans'' period of rule, the economy of the Mediterranean developed, even though this development might be less substantial than one might think. The most considerable and widespread change came during the 300s with the implementation of Christianity as state religion. By then, the Roman Empire experienced a period of change, of recess, and eventually, a breakdown in the West due to foreign military pressure. The transformation of the Roman Empire, together with Christianity becoming the dominating religious ideology, shaped the development of the Western European states in the following period.
| Form of teaching
Approx. 30 hours of lectures/seminars/tutorials
| Exam and assessment
Two assignments of about 5 pages each submitted within a deadline. The assignments will be given a joint evaluation and graded A-E for pass, F for fail. Failing student will be offered a re-sit examination.
| Recommended reading/syllabus
Available on request. |
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