Ancient History: Rulership, Power and Court Societies in the Ancient World – (M.A.)

The programme is based around the theme ‘Rulership, Power and Court Societies in the Ancient World’. The theme informs all the work that you carry out during the year. The assessments will also be on aspects of this theme, as will the dissertation.

You study two compulsory modules (60 credits) in approaches to ancient history research. These modules include lectures and seminars on the following areas:
(1) the art of history - the past as a literary construct, including literature on rulers, courts and monarchies from different areas of the ancient world;
(2) ancient documents and archives, including edicts, petitions, royal letters and other documents issued by ancient rulers;
(3) the material world and visual evidence, including the image of the ruler
(4) scholars and interpretation - critical and interdisciplinary approaches, including modern literature on rulers, courts, and power in the ancient world.

You also take one optional module (20 credits). This will usually be chosen from the modules offered within the School of Historical Studies and includes approaches to classics research and Greek archaeology.

Developing your skills in Greek or Latin is an integral part of this programme and you take 40 credits of language modules at a level that builds on your current ability (modules range from beginners’ to advanced level).

You also research and write a 14,000-word dissertation (60 credits) on a topic agreed with your supervisor. Prior to starting your dissertation research you will do a module in dissertation training (20 credits).