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15 credits, Semester two
Module leader 2023-24: Casey Strine
Module summary
Module summary
This module explores the role migration played in the classical and ancient world. Study is divided into five areas: the social scientific basis for historical reconstruction through migration; economic migration; migration and the formation of communal identity; forced migration as imperial policy; the forced migrants’ voice in antiquity. This module draws primarily on ancient texts (e.g., Mesopotamian annals and myths, the Hebrew Bible, ancient Greek histories). Students will develop skills and knowledge relevant to the study of migration broadly conceived (both in the humanities and social sciences), but is especially relevant to those interested in forced migration.
Learning outcomes
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, you will be able to:
Demonstrate knowledge of 1st millennium BCE history, politics, and literature
Gain a strong understanding of the role migration played in the classical and ancient world, especially in Mesopotamia and the Levant
Demonstrate the capacity to do critical literary analysis of ancient texts in translation (i.e. primary texts)
Develop a basic understanding of the social scientific literature on migration
Exhibit the ability to read, understand, and critically analyse secondary literature on ancient texts and history
Gain a basic familiarity with the main issues in scholarly debate on the relevant primary texts
Show proficiency in verbal/written debate of scholarly issues in a respectful, constructive and intellectually critical way
Present a coherent and well-argued piece of independent research, with accurate referencing and bibliography
Learning and teaching methods
Learning and teaching methods
The module will be taught in five two-hour classes. The seminar format will encourage active student engagement with issues, themes, theories, and even the positions taken by the module leader. The format allows you the opportunity to express ideas and develop your ability to make arguments supported by evidence. Critical thinking skills will be deepened through the modelling of analysis by the module leader and other students. Knowledge of key issues and concepts will be reinforced and expanded through the seminar discussions. The independent work required to prepare for the seminars will enhance your ability to read primary and secondary literature critically while also increasing your proficiency in conducting independent research.
The tutorial session will support the seminar format by providing each student with time to discuss in depth the research that will lead to their essay.
Assessment methods
Assessment methods
Assessment type - % of final mark
3000 word essay - 100%
You will complete a 3000 word essay on a topic related to one of the module's key themes. You will define your own essay topic in discussion with your tutor.
Additional learning and teaching information
Additional learning and teaching information
Teaching and indicative seminar plan:
The module will be taught in five, two-hour classes. You will also have individual tutorial contact with the module tutor in order to discuss your assessment for this module.
Selected reading:
Van de Mieroop, Marc. ‘Assyria’s World Domination, pp. 247-69 in A History of the Ancient Near East: ca. 3000–323 BC.
Radner, Karen. ‘The Lost Tribes of Israel in the Context of the Resettlement Programme of the Assyrian Empire’, pp. 102-32 in The Last Days of the Kingdom of Israel (Berlin: Walter de Gruyter, 2018).
Sinha, Ashish et al. ‘Role of Climate in the Rise and Fall of the Neo-Assyrian Empire’. Science Advances 5 (2019): 1-10.
Heather, Peter. Empires and Barbarians: The Fall of Rome and the Birth of Europe (Oxford: OUP, 2009)—especially chs 1 and 4
Marfleet, Philip. ‘Refugees and History: Why We Must Address the Past’. Refugee Survey Quarterly 26:3 (2007): 136-48.
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