Overview
The Hellenistic Culture pathway is an exciting course offering an unparalleled introduction to the post-Classical Greek world, which draws on the expertise of several members of the Department. Professor Daniel Ogden is an authority on the history, culture and society of the Hellenistic world, and the author of a ground-breaking book on the Hellenistic dynasties: Polygamy, Prostitutes and Death (1999). In Professor Stephen Mitchell the Department has one of the best-known figures in the field of Hellenistic history. Dr. Karen Ní Mheallaigh’s research focuses on the literature and literary culture of the post-Classical world, especially the Roman imperial period. Other members of the department - especially Professor Chris Gill (Philosophy) and Professor John Wilkins (Literature) also have strong interests in the area.
The core module provides an advanced survey of the defining features of the post-classical Greek world, from a variety of perspectives. The chronological range is wide, extending from the death of Alexander the Great to the age of the emperor Hadrian, but the approach to this long period is thematic and does not attempt to supply a narrative history. The module deals with the development of new literary genres and the evolution of a complex new literary culture in the post-Classical world; the post-Alexander dynasties and the nature of Hellenistic monarchy; the institutions and preoccupations of Hellenistic cities studied, in particular, through their epigraphy; ruler cult in the Hellenistic age and the Roman empire.
A field-course (NB: subject to confirmation) involving a visit to a significant part of the Hellenistic world offers students the opportunity to consolidate their knowledge of post-Classical Greek culture.
