Learning objectives
In conformity with the specific learning objectives of the course of study, Unit A has been designed to provide basic knowledge of the historical development of the Greek world from the ancient period to the Hellenistic period (approx. VIII-II c. B.C.), as well as the bases of its civilisation within the context of the history of the ancient Mediterranean world, with particular reference to the Near East. In addition, through the course, the student will become acquainted with basic information on types of sources (literary, epigraphic, numismatic, papyrological, archeological, iconographic) and the ways they are used in studying the history of the world of ancient Greece. <br />
Unit B, which is more specialised, through the study of a specific (yet wide-ranging) topic, will introduce students to actual research work and correct methodology for research, while also emphasising analysis and interpretation of individual texts and documents, the majority of which are given in Italian translation, or material finds and monuments.
Prerequisites
There are no mandatory requirements. General knowledge of the history of the ancient Mediterranean area is recommended.
Course unit content
<br />The course is divided into two units, A and B. <br />
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Unit A (40 hours), introductory in nature, examines the types of sources and methods in the study of Greek history, the political, economic, social and religious bases of ancient Greece and analyses some of the key moments and problems in the historical development of the Greek world between the ancient and Hellenistic periods (VIII-II century B.C.). <br />
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Unit B (40 hours) is entitled Greece at the time of the Peloponnesian Wars (431-404 B.C.). Following an introduction to the political-military, economic and strategic aspects of the war between Athens and Sparta, the course will focus on the international relations of Greece in the second half of the fifth century, the causes of the conflict, the historical dynamics it gave rise to and its consequences within the context of Mediterranean and Near Eastern history. <br />
Full programme
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Bibliography
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For Unit A, students should be familiar with a standard university-level textbook on Green history. For academic year 2005/2006 the following textbooks are recommended: <br />
C. Mosse - A. Schnapp-Gourbeillon, Storia dei Greci, Roma, Carocci, rist. 2000; <br />
C. Orrieux - P. Schmitt-Pantel, Storia greca, tra. it., Bologna, Il Mulino, 2003. <br />
The study of the textbook must be supplemented by the use of a historical atlas. <br />
For the introductory unit, study of the material read and analysed during the lectures will be supplemented by the reading of one of the following books: <br />
P. Cabanes, Introduzione alla storia del mondo antico, Roma, Donzelli, 2002 (only Chaps. I-II, pp. 3-117); <br />
L. Canfora, Prima lezione di storia greca, Roma-Bari, Laterza, 2000. <br />
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For Unit B, study of the material read and analysed during the lectures will be supplemented by the reading of two of the following books: <br />
S. Hornblower, La Grecia classica dalle guerre persiane ad Alessandro Magno, trad. it., Milano, Rizzoli, 1997 (only Chaps. VIII-XIII, pp. 149-303); <br />
K.-J. Holkeskamp, La guerra e la pace, in S. Settis (ed.), I Greci. Storia, cultura, arte, societa, II, 2: Una storia greca. Definizione, Torino, Einaudi, 1997, pp. 481-539. <br />
In addition, with the help of the professor, students will prepare a written report to be discussed during the exam, on a topic to be agreed upon with the professor at the beginning of the course. <br />
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Teaching methods
Course instruction consists primarily of classroom lectures, taking into account as much as possible the range of preparation of students taking the course. The professor shall verify the progress of each student as the course progresses through questioning during lessons and individual meetings during office hours. <br />
The final evaluation will consist of an oral exam based on the course syllabus, as well as the discussion, during the exam, of the written report prepared by each student on the topic agreed upon with the professor at the beginning of the course.
Assessment methods and criteria
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Other information
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