Topics in Ancient History --
The Fourth Century AD
Gary Reger Office Hours: TTh 10:30-11:15 Office: 34H Seabury Phone: 297-2393 Meetings: T 6:45-9:15 pm Email: gary.reger@mail.trincoll.eduThe fourth century AD, which we will regard as running from the accession of Diocletian in 287 to the death of Theodosius in 395, was a turning point in the history of the Mediterranean. It also happens to be the most richly documented century in antiquity. The issues and problems of this period are considerable; we will focus on those of most interest to the participants in this seminar.
The rest of our readings will be generated by the students. Since our numbers are few, and it is impossible to predict exactly which books and articles we will be reading, I have not placed anything on reserve. Instead, students will read in the Library from the reading lists they compile. For this system to work, some Reading Rules must be established and followed:
(1) Read in the Library. Do not check books out.
(2) When done with a book, return it at once to its correct location on the shelves. Do not return it to the Circulation Desk or leave it on a table.
Failure to follow these rules will impede other students' reading. I will not accept as an excuse for not participating in class discussion (see below) that you "couldn't find" the books. Doing the reading is your responsibility. To help with communication among you, I will provide you with a list of your classmates' telephone numbers. Registration in this course entails acceptance of these reading rules.
(2) For the September 12 meeting, generate three (3) possible seminar topics. For one (1) of these, produce a brief (1-2 pp.) explanation of the topic and a starting bibliography (10-15 items) that must include the most important primary sources and at least two (2) journal articles.
(3) Each student will become an "expert" in one primary source. Sources will be assigned at the first meeting. A written assessment of the source, with a bibliography, is due at the September 26 meeting.
(4) Each student will design and lead two seminar meetings. This assignment entails: (a) identifying a topic; (b) developing a reading list that includes primary source material and journal articles; (c) meeting with me as often as necessary to carry out these aspects of the assignment (further on this in the Schedule section below); (d) providing a complete and final reading list for the seminar at least one week beforehand, along with a list of questions to bear in mind while reading; (d) leading discussion on this topic.
(5) Each student will participate with vigor in every seminar meeting. Participation demands preparation: careful, critical, reflective reading of all assigned readings. Discussion outside of class is strongly encouraged.
(6) Attendance at all sessions of the New England Medieval Conference, October 14-15, is obligatory. Each student will write an assessment of 5-8 pp. of one session of the Conference. See the Conference brochure; further details to follow. [Volunteer student workers are needed for Friday evening, October 13, and Saturday morning, October 14. If you are interested, see me.]
(7) Each student will write a substantial (20-25 pp.) research paper. The paper will be developed along the following lines: (a) meet with me to identify a topic, week of September 18; (b) thesis statement of 1-2 pp. and starting bibliography (about 20 items, including primary sources and journal articles) due on October 17; (c) oral report on progress, 20 min., November 14; (d) final version due December 8.
(8) My door is always open to my students. Feel free to consult me at any time about any problems or questions you may have. I may also require additional individual conferences beyond those described above.