Fall Winter 2024/2025
Topic Course Descriptions
CLCV/HIST 3000A: Roman Seafaring in the Eastern Mediterranean
Winter Term
Professor Ibrahim Noureddine
Roman maritime trade in the eastern Mediterranean was arguably the most important factor in the development of the economy of the Roman empire. It is often assumed that the trade was dominated by large-scale and long-distance journeys between cities. This view has been questioned by recent studies that have highlighted greater diversity in maritime activity. This course will focus on the maritime activity of Roman coastal cities and port towns. depending on archaeological and historical evidence to restructure the maritime activities of these communities, from fishing to the transport of wine, olive oil, and many other goods, to the construction of harbours and use of various vessel types and concludes by considering the impact of maritime activity on the local economy.
CLCV 3306A/ARTH 3102/RELI 3732: The Bronze Age
Fall Term
Professor Susan Downie
This course focuses on the three cultures in Greece during the Bronze Age: Cycladic, Minoan, and Mycenaean civilizations. Archaeological evidence and some written records will be used to reconstruct the earliest history and beliefs of the Aegean. We discuss architecture, pottery, painting, and other evidence to reconstruct these societies and their beliefs.
For Classicists in CLCV, this is the earliest period of civilization in Greece – one that heavily influenced later Greek myth.
For Art Historians in ARTH, this is a period known almost exclusively from archaeology and material culture (rather than literature).
For students in RELI, interpretations of the period often focus on religious action and ideology, yet there is the difficulty of understanding religious belief from material remains rather than the written word. Interpretations are very fluid.
CLCV 3307/ARTH 3105 B/ RELI 3733A: Exploring Ancient Egyptian Civilization
Winter Term
Professor Ibrahim Noureddine
The course provides a comprehensive overview of the history, culture, and achievements of the ancient Egyptian civilization. This course explores various aspects of ancient Egyptian society, including its political structure, religious practices, artistic expressions, daily routines, and contribution to science. Students will learn about the pharaohs, the Egyptian construction, the importance of hieroglyphics, and the mythology of ancient Egypt. Through engaging lectures, readings, and interactive discussions, participants will develop a deeper understanding of this extraordinary civilization that thrived for thousands of years along the banks of the Nile River.
CLCV 4210B: Non-Elite in the Roman World
Winter Term
Professor Laura Banducci
Course description coming soon.
CLCV 4800A: Sparta
Fall Term
Professor Susan Downie
We will examine the history, culture, society and afterlife of Sparta, one of the most powerful and unusual city-states in ancient Greece. Ancient literature about Sparta is problematic – often composed by outsiders with their own agendas or by Spartans who were notorious liars. So we will also use archaeology and material culture to better understand Sparta.
Students will do lots of reading, research and writing – including 1 seminar presentation, 1 in-depth essay, and regular active participation in class discussions.
Note: This is NOT a course about the Persian and Peloponnesian Wars: if you are looking for historical narrative and descriptions of battles, it won’t happen here. We will be looking in detail at all aspects of ancient Spartan culture and society – including its army, but much more.
Summer 2024 Course Outlines
CLCV 1002A Course Outline Spring Term 2024 Laura Gagne
CLCV 2500A Course Outline Spring Term 2024 Laura Gagne