Classics 63 Archaeology and Architecture of the Greco-Roman World Ancient Cities Fall 2000 ~ Beth Severy

Goals, Expectations & Evaluation

I have designed the readings and assignments for this course in order for students to:

• develop their abilities to 1) think critically about arguments put forward by other scholars and 2) formulate and present their own arguments,
• become familiar with methods of using archaeological evidence in particular, and practice applying these methods in their own analyses, and
• become familiar with the major issues and controversies surrounding studies of the ancient city.

To these ends, the course will be taught as a seminar, with emphasis on class discussion. To help you read more carefully and prepare to speak, 10 informal response papers are required over the course of the semester. These 1-2 page musings on the reading--including summaries of the main argument, questions, answers, objections, comments, and comparison to other studies--must be submitted before discussion for credit. At least 5 are due before Fall Break. Groups of students will also take turns leading the class discussion. For all reading assignments, questions are provided on the syllabus to help direct your reading and responses, as well as our discussion.

Two formal papers are required, one on the Greek polis (due Friday, October 13) and one on Pompeian domestic architecture (due Friday, December 13). I encourage you to develop your own questions to pursue. Many papers will spring from class discussion, and the assignment is intended to be your opportunity to present a well-evidenced and developed argument on a particular issue. Late paper policy: for every day (24 hrs.) a paper is late, one grade will be deducted from the one otherwise earned.

The other major project of the semester will be a research report on Pompeii. Pairs of students will speak to the group for 15-20 minutes on a specialized topic, such as baths, bakeries or brothels, so that collectively we create a comprehensive picture of the city. Several topics are already provided on the syllabus, but if you are interested in a particular area not covered, please consult with me.

In addition, two quizzes will encourage familiarity with maps, architectural terms, and important historical figures (Greek material, Tuesday, September 26; Roman material, Tuesday, October 24). A final exam (Tuesday, December 19, 1:30-3:30pm) will allow you to have the final word on the scholarly issues we have explored over the semester. If you have difficulties with the date of any scheduled quiz or exam, consult with me in advance. Likewise, if you have any disabilities which necessitate special exam conditions or other considerations, please discuss these with me as soon as possible.

Ancient Cities Homepage ~ Classics Department ~ Macalester College

9/6/00
Beth Severy, Macalester College