Studying the Past: An Introduction to Ancient History in the 21st Century

• • A week-by-week guide to the topics you will explore in this subject will be provided in your study materials.

No eligibility requirements

Additional requirements

No additional requirements

The study of the past is constantly evolving and this unit sets out to introduce students to the changing nature of the study of antiquity and the on-going significance of the past in the modern world. This unit also introduces students to the study of primary sources, or evidence from Greek and Roman world, and the evaluation of how history is written through an analysis of a specific historical area. The unit also introduces students to research projects being undertaken by staff in Ancient History at Macquarie University (for example the Democracy and War).

The first section of the unit is focused on the study of ancient sources - what is our evidence and how did authors millennia ago write about major world events - pandemics, war, politics, and so on that continue to be a focus for us today. This section of the unit will give you a thorough understanding of the issues around the use of evidence in Ancient History.

The second section of the unit focuses on the writing of ancient history in the modern world. You will study a developing area of recent research and critically evaluate how this research is created, its limitations and its strengths, and its significance for those living in the modern world.

The third section of the unit introduces you to a series of projects that are currently being researched by staff at Macquarie University.

• Blog 1 Research Project (20%)
• Writing as an ancient author (40%)
• Blog 2L Ancient History - The Importance of Studying the Past (40%)

For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).