Ancient History

Ancient History at UNE is concerned with the ancient Mediterranean world, birthplace of modern Western civilisation, and encompasses the study of early Near Eastern societies, and ancient Greece and Rome. Whichever field you choose, Ancient History can take you back to look at fascinating things - the pyramids and mummification, Greek society and culture, the rise of Rome and its conquest of the known world. It can introduce you to some of the most famous (and infamous) people in the history of our civilisation - Akhenaten and Nefertiti, Ramesses the Great, Solon, Pericles, Aspasia, Alcibiades, Socrates, Alexander the Great, Cleopatra, Hannibal, Scipio Africanus, Julius Caesar, Boadicea, Augustus, Livia, Nero, Messalina, and Caligula.

Our aim is to assist students not only to reach an understanding of the origins of Western society and why it evolved as it did, but also to acquire the skills of critical analysis, clear oral and written communication, and independent research. These are all in demand in the workplace and suit our students for employment in a wide variety of jobs.

All Ancient History units are designed to familiarise students with the course of events in key periods of the ancient Mediterranean world and to develop an understanding of the social and political forces which shaped these events. Students are introduced to these skills and knowledge in Ancient History 110 and 111, which survey a broad period of Greek and Roman history, and are given advanced training in them in 300 level units. All Ancient History units are taught over one semester and are worth 6 credit points. Some units are also taught at 400 level for those interested in a Master of Arts by coursework.