The Ancient History major invites you into the worlds of ancient Greece and Rome, using their myths, images, inscriptions, artifacts written history and literature as evidence.

Study the ideas, politics and cultures of the Classical world by looking at political systems, religion, law, mythology, slavery, refugees, science and late antiquity. Read (in translation) ancient epic, drama and poetry in its social and historical contexts and appreciate the impact of these works on later ages (including modern media).

You will be encouraged to ask important questions about leadership, democracy and the rule of law, human rights, religions and the role of myths, poetry and story-telling in human communities and be inspired to think about how and why history is written.

Our world is full of the memories and monuments of Classical Greece and Rome. Many ideas and concepts that we value were developed - and debated - by communities whose similarities and differences from our own continue to be thought-provoking. Your major progresses from junior units which lay a foundation for your future study by providing key training and skills, through to senior (intermediate and then advanced) units that focus on developing your skills and treat particular themes or periods in detail. It is designed to help you understand the historical and cultural importance of the Classical world and to evaluate the legacy of that world today.

For more information on the program structure and content including unit of study information, please refer to the Arts and Social Sciences Handbook.

This major is offered by the Discipline of Classics and Ancient History.