The course investigates the ways in which the worlds of ancient Greece and Rome are depicted in film in order to suggest that these films illuminate such contemporary concerns as race relations, gender, religion and political power. Particular attention will be paid to major historical events, social and political movements (300, Spartacus), charismatic leaders, personalities and celebrity (Alexander, Cleopatra), and popular entertainment and spectacle (Troy, Gladiator).  The complexity of translating ancient literary works including tragedy (Iphighenia) and the novel (Satyricon) into the modern, visual medium of film foregrounds the ways in which the material of the ancient world must be adapted and reinterpreted.

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

1. Speak and write with authority on the films under study;
2. Identify and critically assess the key concepts and themes raised by the depiction of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds in film;
3. Use specific examples to explain key concepts and themes
4. Compare cultural experience of those in the ancient world with that of the modern world as represented by film

3,500 word essay (45%);

Tutorial participation and presentations (20%);

2-hour exam (35%).