Aims

This module is designed both as a ‘training module’ to prepare students for independent study and research on aspects of the classical world, and as an opportunity to be introduced to, and to read and study for themselves, some key literary texts from the classical Greek and Roman world which they may not otherwise have the opportunity to study in depth within the taught syllabus.

This module aims to:
• Provide training for students in the skills necessary for undertaking independent study/research in Classical literature and culture, particularly as required for the Stage 3 compulsory (Q810) or optional (Q800, Y001) dissertation/special study Classics modules;
• Introduce students to, and give them the opportunity to study, a range of key literary texts from the classical world.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module involves studying a selection of texts from classical Greek and Latin literature with a view to developing skills associated with independent study and research. Lectures will use the texts to focus on skills and approaches; in the workshops, students can practise these skills in a discussion environment. A series of written assignments will allow students to practise the skills that they have learnt.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures will introduce the texts to be studied, some of the research problems they involve, and possible lines of approach to these; and they introduce and demonstrate a range of the most important skills for independent study and research. Workshops provide the students with the opportunity to practise one or more of those skills on the texts.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Students submit written assignments on their set texts, requiring them to apply cumulatively the relevant research skills taught in each semester. This enables them gradually to develop and hone the requisite skills while applying them to specific classical texts.

Submitted work tests intended knowledge and skills outcomes, develops key skills in research, reading and writing.