CL2ANX-Xenophon's Anabasis

Module Provider: Classics
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Emma Aston
Email: e.m.m.aston@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

In his Anabasis, the Classical author Xenophon describes the tortuous journey of a group of Greek mercenaries, periodically unemployed and often at risk of extermination, from Asia Minor to Babylonia and back again via Armenia and the Black Sea. This module will examine the literary and historical significance of this work, and its contribution to our understanding of a neglected aspect of ancient life: that of travel beyond the traditional confines of the city-state.

Aims:

This module aims to give participants a really detailed knowledge of a single ancient text, the Anabasis of Xenophon. The work will be studied both as a piece of literature and as evidence for a range of ancient events, customs and attitudes: it will therefore allow students to explore the interface between history and historiography.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the content and structure of the Anabasis

• Reflect on the purpose and the genre of the work

• Discuss and evaluate its presentation of characters and events

• Demonstrate knowledge of the main historical events and developments of the period covered

• Discuss and evaluate the historical themes expressed in the Anabasis, and its contribution to our understanding of Classical Greek life and culture

Additional outcomes:

The module aims to encourage the development of oral communication skills, through student participation in and presentation of seminars. It also aims to encourage critical thinking, through the assessment of ancient and modern texts, and to develop skills in presenting ideas and arguments logically and persuasively.

Outline content:

Topics to be covered in this module may include:

• Xenophon’s career and work

• Ancient autobiography and authorial self-presentation

• Characterisation in the Anabasis

• Mercenary soldiers and travel in the Classical world

• The Anabasis’ depiction of different regional Greek identities and of non-Greek communities

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Two hours a week, consisting of either lectures or seminars. For every session specific sections of the Anabasis will be set as essential preparatory reading.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures		8
Seminars		2
Guided independent study:
Wider reading (independent)		30
Preparation for seminars		10
Group study tasks		10
Essay preparation		30
Reflection		10
Total hours by term	0	100	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

The module will be assessed by coursework only, consisting of two assignments:

1. A commentary on a selected passage of the Anabasis, contributing 30% of the module mark and due in by 12 noon on Friday of week 5 of term (c. 1,000 words)

2. An essay (list of titles to be supplied), contributing 70% of the module mark and due in by 12 noon on the last Thursday of the Spring Term (c. 1,500 words)

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

40%

Reassessment arrangements:

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Resubmission in August.

Last updated: 24 May 2023