The Twelve Caesars, Emperors of Rome
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- Start Date: 01 Oct 2025End Date: 03 Dec 2025Wed (Daytime): 11:30 - 13:30In PersonLocation: Keeley StreetDuration: 10 sessions (over -10 weeks)Course Code: RC001Tutors: Michael DuiganFull fee £249.00 Senior fee £199.00 Concession £162.00
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What is the course about?
The extraordinary lives of the first rulers of Imperial Rome. Ancient historians have given us vivid accounts of the sometimes amusing, often scandalous, but always fascinating events in their lives. Can we distinguish between ‘fact’ and vicious propaganda? A visit to the British Museum is included.
What will we cover?
A formative period in the history of the West. The subtle and ruthless Augustus who transformed a dysfunctional republic into an autocracy. The ‘mad’ Caligula who claimed to be a living god. Claudius immortalised by Robert Graves. Nero who conscripted audiences to applaud his music and condemned Christians for the burning of Rome. Titus, conqueror of Jerusalem in whose reign Pompeii & Herculaneum were destroyed. How influential were the women of the imperial family?
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Explain key political, social and cultural events in Rome in their historical context
- Recognise the style, period and context for archaeological objects, images and texts
- Use appropriate evidence and strategies for analysing this ancient material.
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 participate and keep up with the course. You will gain more from the course, in terms of enjoyment and learning, if you are able and willing to do some supplementary reading. Curiosity, an open mind and a willingness to listen to and think about opposing views 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, a museum visit, questions, readings and analysis of original texts (in translation). Museum visits and reading outside the course will enhance the experience.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Limited book purchases recommended but optional.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
Another Classical Civilisations class in Term 2.
Michael teaches Classical and Ancient history at the City Lit. For many years he lectured in the Certificate/Diploma in History of Art course at London University, Birkbeck. He delivered a course in the ‘Classical Tradition’ at St Mary’s University and on ‘the Classical Artist’ at the Courtauld Institute. He also teaches a Summer School on Ancient Art in Christ Church, Oxford University. Michael acts as a tour guide to archaeological sites and museum collections.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.