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Introduction to the Byzantine World

Key information

  • Module code:

    4AACHB02

  • Level:

    4

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

This module introduces students to the world of Byzantium and the Eastern Roman Empire through its culture, rich artistic heritage and the latter's significance and impact. Among the subject matter presented and discussed will be important excavated archaeological sites, cities and villages, surviving structures which often preserve their sculptural and/or monumental decoration and artefacts used in devotional practices and everyday life. The chronological coverage stretches from the foundation of the new imperial city of Constantinople in the 4th century to the final fall of the Byzantine empire to the Ottomans in the 15th. The geographical coverage is equally broad, encompassing the Italian, Balkan and Anatolian peninsulas, the islands of the Eastern Mediterranean and parts of the Levant. 

Assessment details

1 x 2,000 word essay (100%)

Teaching pattern

10 x 2-hour lectures (weekly); 10 x 1-hour seminars (weekly)

Suggested reading list

Introductory Reading

  • R. Cormack, Byzantine art, OUP (Oxford 2000).
  • J. Herrin, Byzantium: the surprising life of a medieval empire, Penguin (London 2007)
  • R. Loverance, Byzantium, British Museum Press (London 2004)
  • J. Lowden, Early Christian and Byzantine art, Phaidon Press (London 1997)
  • T.F. Mathews, The art of Byzantium, Everyman Art Library (London 1998)
  • L. Rodley, Byzantine art and architecture. An introduction, CUP (Cambridge 1994)
  • D. Stathakopoulos, A short history of the Byzantine empire, IB Tauris (London 2014)

Subject areas

Department

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.