First-Year Seminar--Non-Western History (103-6-22)

Topic

Byzantium for Beginners

Instructors

Sergey A. Ivanov

Meeting Info

Harris Hall L04: Mon, Wed 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

It is well known that Ancient Rome fell in the 5th century, but few people are aware that the eastern half of the Empire survived for another thousand years. It was inhabited by Greek-speaking people who are these days referred to as "Byzantines" - yet they never called themselves this way and identified themselves as Romans. This empire had its capital in Constantinople, today's Istanbul, the capital of Turkey. It was the longest-living civilization in the whole history of Western Eurasia. Its religion shaped the spiritual life of Eastern Europe, its culture preserved the ancient Greek literature for us, its flamethrowers forestalled firearms, its art prefigured the 20th century avant-guard, its main cathedral of Istanbul's Hagia Sophia was for 900 years a building with the tallest inner space on Earth. And yet, Byzantium remains understudied and all but unknown to the general public. This course will introduce students to this mysterious civilization.

Learning Objectives

Reading and analyzing primary sources; communicating effectively, both orally and in writing; studying effectively

Evaluation Method

Reading assignments and class participation (35%); four paper (30%); final exam (35%)

Class Materials (Required)

All the assigned readings will be uploaded on Canvas

Class Notes

Concentration: European, Asia/Middle East

Class Attributes

WCAS First-Year Seminar
Attendance at 1st class mandatory

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for First Year & Sophomore only