Module description
The modules offered in each academic year are subject to change in line with staff availability and student demand: there is no guarantee every module will run. Module descriptions and information may vary between years.
The module examines the first century of the Roman Empire, from the death of Augustus to the accession of Nerva. It examines the role of the emperor in this period, and how imperial power became consolidated. It looks at the role in the empire of other groups including Senators and Equestrians, citizens and provincials, and the army. It examines the development of provinces and frontiers - despite some major revolts - towards the form they would largely retain for the next three centuries. This is the period written about by Tacitus and Suetonius, and the works of these writers (read in translation), along with Cassius Dio, form an important part of the reading for the module. It is from them that we have portraits of the emperors, some 'good' (for example Vespasian) but more 'bad' (Caligula, Nero, Domitian), that have dominated subsequent historical imagination. There is still much scholarly debate about the early history of the Roman Empire, and you will have the chance to explore these issues through the module.
Assessment details
Coursework
1 x 2,500 word essay (100%)
Teaching pattern
10 x 2-hour seminars (weekly)