The Rise and Fall of Athens

This course examines, in detail, Greek history from the end of the Persian invasions to the fall of Athens in 404 BC.  The main themes are the rise and fall of the power of Athens and the role of the Persian Empire in Greek history in the 5^th century.

Topics covered include: Athens and her allies in the Delian league; the Peloponnesian league; the Athenian navy; the Periclean building programme; the government of classical Sparta; the economy of classical Athens and the economic foundations of Athenian success in the 5^th century BC; reading, writing and books in Ancient Greece; Persia’s role in Greek politics 479-404BC; art and architecture in Classical Greece with special reference to Athens; Orators and oratory in the late 5^th century and their significance as historical sources.

Presentation will be in seminar style with slide presentations and tutor-led discussion of particular topics and sources each week.

For more information and to book go to: www.ginamay.co.uk/, email gina@ginamay.co.uk, call Gina on 07873561560