Dynasties, Democracy, Empire

Course outline

The ancient Mediterranean was a baffling and bizarre world at times. Even though the ancient peoples shared a lot of experiences with us in the modern world, their societies were fundamentally different in many unexpected and surprising ways. This course will explore the vibrant history and cultures of three great civilizations in the ancient Mediterranean: Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Using both the newest archaeological discoveries and great works of classical literature, it will show how we can learn about (and from) the lives of ordinary men and women, pharaohs and tyrants, empresses and gladiators, commoners and priests, scribes and soldiers from the ancient world. This introductory course uses ancient evidence to present the major historical events in the Mediterranean against the backdrop of the everyday lives of the people who lived in these societies.

Learning outcomes

This course offers students the opportunity to be exposed to various world music scenes and to perceive them as signs of communication that need to be understood within particular cultural contexts and time. Studying selected theories, methods and perspectives in the study of music and identities, students learn to think and write critically, and verbally express their ideas through participating in classroom and tutorial discussions. By completing course assignments, students are guided to understand the relationships between music, society and human behaviours and reflect themselves as to who they are and how culturally they are constructed.

Terms & Conditions

This programme gives you the opportunity to attend regular lectures in a selection of courses, alongside enrolled students as an observer. Please note that you are not eligible to attend tutorials, take part in assessments, sit for exams and will not have access to course material online. You will be provided with a course outline to keep you up to date with the topics discussed in class every week. This is a no-stress learning opportunity.