CLASS 7675 - [Greek and Roman Historiography]

(crosslisted) HIST 6675

Spring. Not offered 2017-2018. 4 credits. Letter grades only.

Co-meets with CLASS 4675/HIST 4675.

J. Rusten.

Rather than a survey of the history of ancient Greek and Rome, a study of the major ancient authors (from Herodotus through Ammianus Marcellinus) who invented and developed the genres of historical writing. We will examine their philosophical and educational aims, concepts of historical causation, demarcation of subject matter, as well as conventions and sub genres of historiography in antiquity, and critics of historical styles and approaches. All source readings available in English (there will be an optional separate meeting for those wishing to read some texts in the original); but ability to read secondary literature in a modern European language is desirable and will assist greatly with the final research paper. Some previous coursework in either Greek or Latin history or literature is desirable.