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Academic Year 2005/2006

Romans and Christians: The World of Late Antiquity
CCIV 275 FA

The emperor Diocletian's administrative and financial reforms, closely followed by the conversion of Constantine to Christianity, mark a watershed in the history of the Late Roman Empire. From A.D. 284 (accession of Diocletian) until the establishment of the Germanic successor kingdoms (roughly in the 6th century)--the period known as Late Antiquity--the Roman West presents a fascinating picture of cultural change. In this course we will study the period (4th to 6th century) from three different perspectives: the conversion of Romans to Christians and of Christians to "Romans"; the material world of late antiquity--especially the changes to the city of Rome--and the art, architecture, and literature of the period; the rise of the cult of the saints and monasticism and the lives of the holy men and women. The course will conclude with an epilogue pursuing these themes in Ostrogothic Italy and Merovingian Gaul.

MAJOR READINGS

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture/Discussion

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: HA CLAS    Grading Mode: Student Option   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-30-2006

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