HIST 205-03, The Rise and Fall of Athens, Fall 2008

Abstract

This course offers a comprehensive survey of one of the most fascinating epochs of European history: Athens from the age of Solon and the birth of democracy in the 6th century BCE to the tumultuous post-Peloponnesian War period (404-399), which saw the collapse of the Athenian empire, tyranny and foreign occupation, and the execution of its greatest citizen, Socrates. Particular attention will be paid to the major political, social, and cultural developments, as we try to understand the factors that contributed to the growth and decline of Athenian civilization. Such an enterprise will afford the student many opportunities to reflect upon our own history and thus to draw useful parallels (as well as key differences) between ancient Athens and modern America. Among the many themes and topics we will examine are: the theory and practice of Athenian democracy; political dissent; imperialism and the Athenian empire; the rhetoric of war; work and leisure; the position of slaves, foreigners, and women in Athenian society; classical art and architecture; and tragedy as a “civic discourse.” While this course is designed as an introduction and assumes no prior experience with Greek history, there will be an emphasis on the use and interpretation of primary sources, both literary and archaeological.