This course offers the opportunity to study Roman rhetorical theory and its practical manifestation in a representative range of Roman speeches. It covers the history and development of rhetoric at Rome in dialogue with Greek models, the variety of theoretical approaches and their adaptation to the conditions of public speech at Rome, and the relationship between rhetoric, public speaking and the change from Republic to Empire. Cicero's speeches are the main focus for practical analysis, as the only surviving complete speeches from the Republican period, but the course also considers declamation, imperial speech-writing, and fragmentary evidence.

Two hours per week as scheduled on MyCampus. This is one of the Honours options in Classics and may not run every year. The options that are running this session are available on MyCampus.

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The standard assessments for this course are: 

■ Examination (90 minute duration) - 50%

■ Rhetorical analysis of a passage from a speech (2,500 words) - 50%

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

■ There are no alternatives to the assessments, but flexible deadlines/ extra time 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 will provide the opportunity to:

■ Learn and apply a range of Roman rhetorical theories

■ Explore the role of rhetoric within Roman educational theory and practice;

■ Explore a representative range of Roman oratory in its political, legal and social context

■ Explore how Roman orators used rhetorical theory in their speeches in order to achieve specific practical ends

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

■ Apply a detailed understanding of ancient rhetorical theory and its relevance to Roman education and culture

■ Apply rhetorical theory to the analysis of Roman speeches

■ Illustrate critical skills through close reading of passages of ancient rhetorical texts

■ Locate a representative range of Roman speeches in their political, legal and social contexts

■ Analyse and comment perceptively on passages from Roman oratory