What is the course about?
This course offers a general look at ships and sailing techniques in the Ancient World and how vessels were used in warfare.
This is a live online course. You will need:
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.
What will we cover?
We shall look at the strategies used by navies in the ancient world and specifically the tactics at Salamis in 480 BC where the allied Greek forces defeated the Persian fleet of King Xerxes, the second battle of Syracuse in 414 BC when the mighty Athenians were defeated by the Syracusans and the battle of Actium in 31 BC when Augustus and Agrippa decisively defeated Antony and Cleopatra. We shall also look at some of the lesser known conflicts and the design of Ancient warships.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- How naval warfare was conducted in the Classical World
- When naval victories could be decisive conflicts
- The reasons for and consequences of naval warfare.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Introductory, no prior knowledge necessary.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Illustrated lectures, discussions, questions, reading of original texts (in translation).
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Please bring pen and paper to make notes.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Other Classics history or art history classes. See online for details.
