OVERVIEW

Among the sources that enable us to understand the history and evolution of the Greek and Roman civilisations, in their specificity and intersections, are inscriptions - written testimonies on durable materials (stone, metal, ceramics, etc.) that have come directly from antiquity. Inscriptions occupy a central position in this study, precisely because of their nature as original documents and their great variety of forms, contents and functions. Epigraphy is the discipline that studies inscriptions as writing with a specific focus on the contexts and devices of their use. Although Greek and Latin epigraphy are similar in several respects, they differ in more than one, starting with language, and as such will be explored in depth in the individual modules of the course which are coordinated and complementary, as illustrated in their respective presentations (Greek Epigraphy and Latin Epigraphy).

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Greek Epigraphy, module I: Getting acquainted with alphabetical Greek writing, its peculiarities, and its evolution (from Archaic Age until Hellenistic-Roman Age); Acquiring a method to critically analyze different kinds of epigraphic sources; Knowing Greek civilization by reading and analyzing epigraphic texts related to institutional, political, and social contexts; Being able to carry out specific bibliographical research by using traditional and online research instruments.

Latin Epigraphy, module II: Providing theoretical and practical knowledge needed to read, translate and understand the epigraphical messages of the Roman era (known as the writing civilization), in their variety; Showing and deepening the historical, institutional, social, economic, cultural aspects contained in every epigraphical document, contextualizing them in the bigger stage of the ancient world, especially of the Roman era.

PREREQUISITES

Please, see the indications in the individual module sheets.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Please, see the indications in the individual module sheets.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Please, see the indications in the individual module sheets.

Exam schedule