This cultural history course examines the lives and the representations of women and children in the Greek and Roman worlds. Through attention to written, epigraphic, visual and material culture, students will gain knowledge of the lives of and attitudes towards women and children in antiquity.
Not currently offered.
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Identify various sources of evidence for information on, and knowledge of, women and children in ancient Greece and Rome;
2. Analyse women's lives - and the lives and lifecycle of children in antiquity;
3. Evaluate related modern criticism (including feminist critique) of the given areas;
4. Compare linkages and influences on later literary and cultural environments.
The course begins with the earliest evidence of the lives of women and children in antiquity; namely, Early Bronze Age Greece. Following a chronological framework, students are introduced to major developments and changes in the lives, status, treatment and representation of women and children in both ancient Greece and Rome. Individual women are discussed, including mythical and / or legendary women, through to historical figures, such as Sappho, Aspasia and, from Rome, Cornelia, mother of the Gracchi, and the women of the imperial court. The close connection between women and children, particularly in relation to the role of women as mothers, is a theme of this course.
This course replaces AHIS3600. If you have successfully completed AHIS3600 you cannot enrol in this course.
AHIS1000 or other Ancient History or History courses at 1000 level.
Journal: Journal (35%)
Written Assignment: 3 seminar papers (@ 15% each = 45%)
Quiz: Online Quiz (20%)