The Roman Countryside (ANCW40018)
HonoursPoints: 12.5Not available in 2025
About this subject
Overview
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This subject provides a wide-ranging overview of both overall trends and regional differences in Roman rural occupation and economy between the Archaic period and Late Antiquity. Primarily based on archaeological data, students will be introduced to the key topics in the field, including different forms of rural settlement (villas, farms, villages), the agricultural and non-agricultural economy, Roman colonization and the role of infrastructure. Although the main focus will be on the Italian peninsula, attention will also be drawn to developments in the Roman provinces.
This subject is for students admitted to fourth-year Honours or Graduate Diploma (Advanced) in Ancient World Studies or Classics; or admission to Graduate Diploma, Graduate Certificate, or Graduate Certificate (Advanced) in Classical Studies and Archaeology; or, permission of the subject coordinator.
Intended learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this subject should be able to:
- Apply the main methods to study the Roman countryside
- Assess the complexity and regional diversity of Roman rural occupation and the rural economy
- Reflect on the main theories and debates in the field and be able to assess their strengths and weaknesses
- Evaluate how archaeological evidence from Roman rural sites has been interpreted through various theoretical lenses, and propose new lines of inquiry or alternative frameworks for understanding the social, economic, and environmental dynamics of the Roman countryside.
Generic skills
Students who successfully complete this subject should be able to:
- Develop critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate concepts, beliefs, considering multiple perspectives, and supporting evidence
- Communicate effectively in writing and synthesis an argument in cogent form
- Evaluate the impact of social, ethical, and cultural contexts
- Acquire greater confidence in tackling unfamiliar problems
- Reflect on the communication conventions of another culture
- Conduct independent research and effectively manage information
Last updated: 4 March 2025