syllabus 205

Prof. Alison Futrell

Office hours: W 12-2 & by appt.

Soc Sci 131/626-8428

afutrell@u.arizona.edu

This course offers a chronological survey of Roman History from the prehistoric settlements in the area of the Seven Hills to the deterioration of the western Empire in the fifth century A.D. The main goal is to achieve a greater awareness of the impact of Roman civilization, how the Romans negotiated a cohesive empire within the diversity of the ancient Mediterranean area and how that achievement has been evaluated, in antiquity and in the modern world. Another goal is the acquisition of greater skill in the tasks of the historian: the analysis of primary evidence in answering historical questions and the capacity to communicate one's findings in well-organized, solidly-argued written form. Special topics of interest include the material culture of the Roman world; the use of images in the pursuit of political agendas; classical notions of the divine and concepts of gender, power and identity. Popular constructs of ancient Rome, specifically in film, will provide another area of consideration for comparison throughout the semester.

Participation: Students are required to attend class, listen thoughtfully, and take part in classroom activities, which will include written responses to the ancient sources. Each student must purchase a pack of 3" x5" lined index cards to document participation.

Papers: Each is a 3 to 4 page (typewritten) essay on a topic to be chosen from a list circulated in advance. Papers will emphasize the analysis of primary historical evidence, but also the development of critical communication skills: organization, argumentation, presentation. Due Feb 22 and April 22, by 5 p.m. in professor's mailbox, Social Sciences 215.

Quizzes/Film Commentary: Every other week, quizzes will be given during the last ten minutes of class. Quizzes will typically be short essay; a map format may also be offered. THERE WILL BE NO MAKE-UPS OF IN-CLASS QUIZZES. In addition, students must submit at least one film commentary (more than one, if so desired). Films will be shown on campus in the late afternoon; most of the films are also locally available on video or at the main library. Each student will receive a film viewing guide in advance, which will address particular aspects to watch for and particular questions to which the student must respond (about a paragraph for each question). Each film review is due in class by the end of the next week. The top seven scores on quizzes and film commentaries will be used in tabulating the final grade.

Tests: midterm and final are each a combination of identification and essay; you will choose four identification terms and one essay topic among several presented to you. Study guides will be distributed in advance, consisting of a number of essay topics from which those appearing on the exam will be selected. Terms for identification will also be drawn from these essay topics, in order to allow you to focus your preparation better. A successful essay must present a thesis and well-organized supporting arguments, making use of primary sources as documentary evidence; a successful identification must give the meaning of the term, place it in the appropriate chronological, geographical, and historical context and explain the significance of the item in Roman history. Final examination will NOT be cumulative.

The University of Arizona observes a Code of Academic Integrity, which demands that all material submitted by a student be the student's own work. Failure to comply with this Code will result in disciplinary sanctions. A complete copy of this Code is available from the Dean of Students or the Committee on Academic Integrity.