Greek heroes

Using objects in the British Museum and elsewhere, we examine the myths surrounding the lives and exploits of three greek heroes as depicted in the art and literature of Ancient Greece and later cultures. Visit to the museum in the afternoon.

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Key course information

Date
19/11/11

Day(s)
Sat

Duration
1 week

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £37
Senior fee: £23
Concession: £11

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
HH045

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

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Still got questions?
humanities@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2652

Course outline

What is the course about?

We shall examine the myths surrounding Heracles, Theseus and Jason as recorded by ancient writers and illustrated by ancient and later artists. Some other heroes such as Perseus and Bellerophon will also be touched on.

What topics will we cover?

Heracles is particularly famous for his twelve labours and these will be outlined and illustrated. He also had other myths surrounding his birth and death and other exploits which will also be covered. He was one of the companions chose by Jason to sail on the Argo on the quest for the Golden Fleece. This is the major story that will be covered for Jason but his tragic affair with Medea and their sad fates will also be covered. Theseus’s main claim to fame was his victory over the Minotaur but his other exploits will be covered including his marriage to the Amazon queen which was the starting point for Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

Recall many of the myths surrounding the Greek heroes.
Recognise their exploits as depicted by artists over the centuries.
Show that you understand modern allusions to the “Labours of Hercules”, “Cleaning the Augean Stables” and other sayings.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is an `introductory` course and does not assume any previous study or reading although you will need a good grasp of English to keep up with the course. As with most of our history and current affairs courses, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about views with which you do not always agree are more important than specific levels of skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Illustrated lectures, discussions, questions, reading and analysis of original texts (in translation), museum visit.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

No other costs. Please bring pen and paper.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made. Based on demonstrable learning in classroom discussion. Evaluation with tutor as required.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Another course from the 'Ancient history' section or HH056 The woman who surpassed all others in beauty: Helen of Troy.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2652

humanities@citylit.ac.uk

Advice times:

During term-time Monday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30 and 17.30–18.30

Non term-time Monday 17.30–18.30 Thursday 12.30–13.30.

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.