ANCIENT ROME: SLAVES, EMPIRE AND FILM

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Overview

This subject introduces you to the society, literature and art of ancient Rome through major historical figures such as Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, Augustus, Nero. We read ancient Roman literature, history and examine material culture to better understand at slavery, class, gender roles and entertainment, such as ancient comedy and arena spectacles. While the city of Rome is the focus of our study, we consider the impact of Rome's vast empire and the significance of its history of military conquest. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about Pompeii and the legacy of Roman culture. Central to this subject is looking forward to the way in which Rome is now depicted on screen and in television, movies, novels and video games, including HBO's series Rome, Russell Crowe in Gladiator, and the video game Ryse: Son of Rome. You will study a modern text of your choice throughout the semester that represents the ancient Roman world, introducing you to the discipline of Classical Reception Studies.

Portfolio

Office of the Provost

School

Subject coordinator

Leanne McNamara

Subject type

Undergraduate

Year level

Year Level 2 - UG

AQF level

Level 6 - Advanced Diploma

Available as elective

Yes

Available to study abroad / exchange students

Yes

Capstone subject
Capstones provide students with a way of integrating and applying knowledge and skills gained throughout their course.

Academic progress review - Schedule A subject

Subject instances

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Learning resources

Recommended - Book - The Aeneid; a new translation by David West

Career ready

Work based learning (placement):No

Graduate capabilities

COMMUNICATION - Communicating and Influencing

COMMUNICATION - Cultural Intelligence and Global Perspective

COMMUNICATION - Digital Capability

DISCIPLINE KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

INQUIRY AND ANALYSIS - Creativity and Innovation

INQUIRY AND ANALYSIS - Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

INQUIRY AND ANALYSIS - Research and Evidence-Based Inquiry

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL - Adaptability and Self-Management

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL - Ethical and Social Responsibility

PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL - Leadership and Teamwork

Subject intended learning outcomes

On successful completion you will be able to:

Identify and assimilate sources, lines of argument and evidence on aspects of Roman culture and society. Continue to develop skills in distinguishing between primary and secondary sources, using both in historical inquiry.

Identify the context of ancient literary and historical sources and articulate their relevance to this context in written analyses of ancient texts and examples of material culture.

Use computing and information technology to articulate their understanding of Roman culture and society.

Write correctly referenced essays using primary and secondary sources to frame a line of argument about a Roman culture and society, including a bibliography.

Write with confidence about aspects of Roman culture and society.

Learning activities

Readings, in-class activities, discussion and assessment.

Enrolment rules

Special conditions

Requisite rules

Prerequisites: Students must have completed 60 credit points of Level one subjects

Handbook