This unit explores the history and culture of Athens in the fifth century BCE. Students are introduced to the major cultural achievements of this period, ranging across literature (both prose and drama), architecture, scientific enquiry and philosophy, and are encouraged to understand these achievements within the broader political context of Athens—a context forged by the twin imperatives of radical democracy and empire. The unit focuses on the ancient sources, both material (for example, the archaeological remains) and literary (principally Thucydides, but also playwrights such as Aristophanes). -- Course Website
Instructor: Assistant Professor Lara O'Sullivan
Prerequisites: any Level 1 CLAN unit