Not currently offered
Course code

AHIS2110

Units

10 units

Level

2000 level

Course handbook

Description

This course focuses on Spartan history from the ancient origins down to the 4th Century BCE and key aspects of the political and social organisation and practice. Emphasis is placed on the use of ancient source material in translation (incorporating Greek and Roman value terms) in conjunction with modern scholarly opinion. Attention is also given to archaeological evidence. In addition to political and military histories, the course covers Spartan cultural history, such as the importance of religion, ritual and cult worship, as well as the role of children, education and gender. Through an online assessment, students also develop digital competence to facilitate transferable workplace skills.


Availability

Not currently offered.

This Course was last offered in Semester 2 - 2022.


Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Analyse the history, culture, and traditions of Sparta in antiquity;

2. Explain oral and written arguments in a clear, concise and analytical manner;

3. Evaluate primary and secondary sources of evidence relevant to the history of Sparta;

4. Develop and demonstrate skills in presenting historical information on Sparta in a digital context.


Content

  • Methodologies and approaches to the study of ancient Sparta
  • Geography, natural features and resources
  • Major archaeological sites
  • Early Sparta from the Mycenaean age to the end of the 8th Century BCE
  • The Lycurgan system and Spartan political system
  • Social structure
  • The Spartan army
  • Education
  • Women
  • Religion and other cultural themes
  • Sparta and the Greeks from the 6th to the 4th Centuries BCE 
  • The decline of Sparta as a power in the mid-4th Century BCE 
  • Sparta through the eyes of ancient philosophers and historians: ideal versus reality, including the Spartan mirage
  • Greek lawgivers and tyrants 
  • Rise of Athenian Democracy
  • Peloponnesian War and the rivalry between Athens and Sparta
  • Using ancient Greek sources 
  • Lessons from Greek history for modern society

Requisite

This course replaces AHIS3150. If you have successfully completed AHIS3150 you cannot enrol in this course.


Assumed knowledge

20 units at any level in Ancient History or History


Assessment items

Participation: Online Forum

Essay: Essay

Written Assignment: Tutorial Paper and Oral Contribution

Presentation: Presentation

Online Learning Activity: Podcast

Course outline

Course outline not yet available.