Last modified: 25 May 2018 11:16
This course offers an introductory survey of foundational works of European culture. Lectures will introduce students to the content, occasion, and influence of texts of exemplary historical importance and contemporary interest. The texts surveyed may vary each year, but will be suggestive of the thematic and formal range of classical thought. Students normally may expect to read selections of classical literary, historical, and philosophical works from such figures as Homer, Virgil, Polybius, Josephus, Plato, and Aristotle. Special attention will be paid to the reception of these figures and their works have informed the western intellectual tradition. Download Course Guide
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | Second Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Old Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
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Course Aims
This course offers an introduction to some of the foundational texts of the European cultural tradition. Its aims to foster knowledge of and critical appreciation for the intellectual legacy of antiquity; to encourage reflection upon the distinctiveness and contingency of modern western culture; and to promote a level of cultural literacy amongst first-year undergraduate students.
Main Learning Outcomes
Students completing the course should gain an enhanced sense of the underpinnings of European culture; an awareness of the range of classical thought as it comes to expression in some especially formative texts; and an appreciation of the complexity and dynamism of the western intellectual tradition. Students will be also gain a broad familiarity with several styles of academic engagement with classical texts (e.g., literary, philosophical, historical, theological).
Course Content
This course offers an introductory survey of foundational works of European culture. Lectures will introduce students to the content, occasion, and influence of texts of exemplary historical importance and contemporary interest. The texts surveyed may vary each year, but will be suggestive of the thematic and formal range of classical thought. Students normally may expect to read selections of classical literary, historical, and philosophical works from such figures as Homer, Virgil, Polybius, Josephus, Plato, and Aristotle. Special attention will be paid to the reception of these figures and their works have informed the western intellectual tradition.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
1st Attempt:
2 essays each 1500 words (equal weighting)
Resit:
2 hour examination (100%)
There are no assessments for this course.
Students receive individual, written feedback on their written coursework within two weeks of submission. Oral feedback on all work is available on request.
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