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  3. The Ancient Greeks: Art & Archaeology

The Ancient Greeks: Art & Archaeology (ANCW20027)

Undergraduate level 2Points: 12.5Not available in 2026

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Overview

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The Ancient Greeks have occupied a central role in modern imaginations of the history of the western world. Building, art and political government were modelled after ancient Greek examples and the ancient Greeks played a pivotal role in the identity of the western world, at least up until World War II.

This subject aims at familiarising students with the most important archaeological sites, artefacts and artistic expressions from the ancient Greek world between the Bronze Age and Late Classical periods. Students will gain skills in analysing artefacts and built environments and learn to connect these to critical historical narratives of ancient Greece. In addition to temples, theatres, sculpture and pottery, students will be introduced to the cultural life of the ancient Greeks including literature and philosophy, the symposium, the role of women and slaves as well as daily life. Students will handle genuine archaeological artefacts, engaging in a detailed analysis of material culture housed in the University's collection.

Intended learning outcomes

Students who successfully complete this subject should be able to: 

  • Apply appropriate critical skills and archaeological methodologies to the research and analysis of Ancient Greek culture
  • Communicate interpretations of Ancient Greek material culture and artefacts effectively, both orally and in writing
  • Identify, analyse, and engage critically with both primary sources (including material culture) and secondary scholarship in the interpretation of Ancient Greek culture
  • Reflect on the material culture of Ancient Greek culture
  • Approach all evidence about Ancient Greek culture with intellectual honesty and a respect for ethical values
  • Work effectively, in groups and independently, to identify, discuss and critically analyse key issues in the interpretation of Ancient Greek culture.

Generic skills

Students who successfully complete this subject should be able to:

  • Develop critical thinking skills to analyse 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: 15 January 2026