This unit provides an introduction to Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Near-Eastern society and culture through the study of myth. The unit begins from the earliest creation myths and examines the development of myth in literature and art. The study is largely based upon Greek and Latin texts in translation as well as the representation of myth in art; Egyptian, Near-Eastern, and biblical texts are studied too. The unit focuses on the relevance of key themes in myth to the cultures in which the myths arose, investigating their roles in the religious, political and social life of the classical world. -- Course Website
Instructor: Dr Ian Plant