This course will explore the development of ancient science and technology and its interaction with ancient societies and the environment, focusing mainly on the Mediterranean area and the Near and Middle East. It takes a wide view of technology, ranging from the use of stone tools and fire by hominids through complex machines to the massive concrete domes and arched dams of the Romans, only bettered in modern times. The course will encompass material, textual and environmental evidence and approaches, with core texts to be studied in Greek.

1x1hr lecture; 1x1hr seminar; 1x1 text session over 10 weeks as scheduled in MyCampus.

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The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ Oral Presentation (10 minutes) - 10%

■ Essay (2000 words) - 40%

■ Exam (2-hour duration) - 50%

If required, for instance where a disability prevents a student from undertaking a specific method of assessment, the following alternatives are available: 

■ Recorded Presentation or Written script of equivalent length or Power point with substantial notes as an alternative to presentation.

■ There are no alternatives to the essay, but flexible deadlines can be offered as reasonable adjustment (Students should follow the usual process for extensions). 

■ There are no alternatives to the exam, but extra time/alternative space can be offered as reasonable adjustment (Students should follow the usual process for extensions). 

Further reasonable adjustments may be provided where necessary. Students are encouraged to consult with the course convenor.  

This course aims to:

■ Study the nature and extent of technology in the ancient world, from basic tools to sophisticated machines

■ Relate ancient technologies to their historical, social and environmental contexts

■ Explore models for the diffusion and development of ancient technology

■ Study central texts in the history of ancient technology in the original language

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Identify the main features of ancient technology in areas such as agriculture, warfare, the economy, education and entertainment.

■ Recognise the constraints on the dynamics that connected humans, technology and the environment and the ancient Mediterranean.

■ Use textual, material and environmental evidence to relate technology to its social context.

■ Explain orally and in written form the relationship between ancient technical theory and practice.

■ Analyse orally and in written form the impact of technology on the ancient environment and vice-versa.

■ Translate and evaluate technical texts written in Greek.