CLAS 10030: Eternal Rome: The Archaeology and History of the Ancient City
Two thousand years ago, Rome was the capital of an empire stretching across the Mediterranean, from England, Spain and North Africa to Turkey, Iraq and Egypt. Built from the wealth of its expansive dominion, it was the greatest metropolis on earth, at the center of a vast web of interconnected regions and cultures. The city has remained the focus of the Catholic Church and Christianity in Europe for more than 1500 years. Since antiquity, Rome has welcomed many of the world's greatest intellectuals, artists, and historical figures. Once at the heart of the Italian Renaissance and now capital of Italy, Rome remains preeminent in the world. This course explores the art, archaeology, history, literature, and urban development of the eternal city, from its legendary Trojan origins to modern times, a period which spans almost three thousand years. The course provides a comprehensive survey of Rome, primarily through the examination of its history and material culture (e.g., architecture, inscriptions, paintings, coins, etc.). We will explore the major archaeological sites and museums, to examine how Rome's monuments and artifacts reflect the social, political, and religious outlook of Roman society over time. As the largest archaeological site in the world, Rome offers an unparalleled insight into the genesis and development of Europe 'its history, art, architecture, literature, philosophies, institutions, and heritage' and thereby provides a deeper glimpse of humanity.