Ancient cities St. Paul knew

What is the course about?

Ancient cities are amazing, famous for impressive and eloquent architecture, the prestige and erudition of
their citizens, and the glories of their heroes. Cities celebrated for their links with St. Paul of Tarsus have something more to give the visitor: this course brings you closer to eight of these outstanding places, enhancing your understanding St. Paul’s impact on the Graeco-Roman world of the 1st century A.D.

What will we cover?

Using New Testament documents as well as other primary sources and archaeological reports, we explore eight great places, their reputations and realities, their preoccupations and livelihoods. We begin with Athens, travel south to Corinth with its three harbours, go north to Thessalonika and Philippi, before sailing to Ephesus, Miletus, and Tarsus in Asia Minor, before concluding with Antioch via its port of Seleucia in Syria.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- explain what was most significant about each of the cities described and discussed in our course, noting the challenges Paul of Tarsus would have faced there;
- evaluate the usefulness of sources available to us in our study of the cities of St. Paul in terms of ancient texts, architecture, and archaeological reports;
- compile a ‘bucket list’ of ancient places you would like to visit, whether or not we have covered them in our course, and explain you have included them.

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

No previous knowledge is required, although there will be recommended reading for each session. Books should be available from a library, although you might wish to buy particular texts if you wish to explore a topic further.

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

Most sessions involve the tutor presenting prepared talk or lecture, illustrated with slides. There are opportunities throughout for questions and discussion. These are illustrated with slides. As the course progresses you may wish to review an aspect of our course to the group, but this is not a requirement. Detailed notes and bibliographies, with suggested topics for further enquiry, are provided for each session.

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

You may well wish to buy some books to further your study. Although visits may be recommended, involving travel and entrance fees, these are not part of the course itself.

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

Other courses on ancient civiilisations. See the website for details.