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Description
This course examines the history of Sicily from the prehistoric period to the (re)conquest of the island by the Byzantine emperor Justinian. Classes deal in turn with each of the major cultures that have developed in or imposed themselves on Sicily, and thus provide an introduction to many of the most important civilizations of the ancient Mediterranean (e.g. the Mycenaeans, Carthaginians, Greeks, Romans, Vandals, Ostrogoths, and Byzantines) via a single geographically defined focus. This approach enables an appreciation to be made of the fundamental similarities and differences between these cultures, and the continuities and changes in methods of control and exploitation of the land and its resources that they each employed. Close reading of primary and secondary sources will be combined with archaeological site visits to provide a complete overview of the available evidence.

Objective
To provide students with an appreciation of the diverse cultures that shaped the early history of Sicily.

Requirements
No pre-requisites necessary.

Method
Lecture
Seminar
Field trip

Tests - Assignments
Coursework will consist of reading assignments and individual research to be conducted at home.

Evaluation - Grading System

Students will be expected to complete two quizzes and a final examination.
(30%) written evaluation 1
(30%) written evaluation 2
(40%) final exam

Text Books - Further Readings

Reader Pack

Sample Fieldtrips:

-Syracuse: Greek & Roman Syracuse
-Agrigento
-Palermo