The Ancient History minor focuses on two of the great civilisations of the ancient Mediterranean, Greece and Rome. These civilisations have been enormously influential down to modern times: the Greeks invented democracy, history, philosophy and the scientific method, while the Mediterranean has never again been united as it was under Roman rule, and Rome’s legacy continues to resonate in modern oratory, law, urbanization and international relations. Much of Western culture claims descent from Greece and Rome, yet these ancient societies were also exotically different from our own.

The First Year courses in Ancient History treat Classical Greece and Late Republican Rome, while also training students in how to use and read ancient sources (in translation). Later Year courses will cover a range of periods and aspects of Greek and Roman history, including politics, war and imperialism, society and economy, and mythology, art and architecture. 

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this minor, students should be able to

1. speak with some authority on ancient      Greek and Roman history;
2. think critically and analytically about      major issues and controversies in ancient Greek and Roman history;
3. write more effectively and critically,      and master oral communication;
4. distinguish between primary and      secondary sources and critically evaluate them;
5. demonstrate an ability to manage their time, schedules and      deadlines effectively
6. to develop a global perspective by      studying the histories of two very different and chronologically distant      cultures

Relevant Degrees

• Bachelor of Arts (BARTS)
• Bachelor of Arts/Master of International Affairs (BARTVMIA)
• Bachelor of Classical Studies (BCLAS)