Module 1 - This period study will focus on the unfolding narrative of the relations between the Greek city-states and their relations with the Persian Empire during the period 492–404 BC, within five key time spans: The challenge of the Persian Empire 492 – 479 BC, including the Persian invasions led by Darius and Xerxes, including the battles of Marathon, Thermopylae, Salamis and Plataea; Greece in conflict 479 – 446 BC, including the rise of the Delian League and the First Peloponnesian War,; Peace and conflict 446 – 431 BC, including the revolt of Samos and causes of the Second Peloponnesian War; The Archidamian War 431– 420 BC, including the plague in Athens and the Peace of Nikias; The end of the Peloponnesian War and its aftermath 419–404 BC, including the Sicilian Expedition and relations with Persia.

Module 2 - This period study will focus on the unfolding narrative of the establishment and development of the principate under Augustus, Tiberius, Gaius, Claudius and Nero, with a particular focus on their military, social and political achievements, their relations with the Senate, Equestrians and plebeians; and their treatment by the ancient sources. Augustus, victory at Actium; constitutional settlements of 27 BC and 23 BC; military achievements; importance of Livia and Agrippa; restoration of the Republic; revival of traditional Roman values; attitude towards religion; administrative changes to Rome and the provinces; building programme; challenges to his rule; establishment of a dynasty and issues of succession; the Res Gestae; Tiberius, views of classical authors on Tiberius’ reign; Tiberius’ relationships with Germanicus and Sejanus; conspiracies and challenges to his reign; treason trials; attitude towards religion, the Imperial Cult. Gaius, presentation of Gaius’ character and personality as emperor by the ancient sources; assassination in AD 41; attitude towards religion, the Imperial Cult; administrative changes to Rome. Claudius, difficulties of the accession; presentation of Claudius’ role in, and motives for, the invasion of Britain; importance of his wives and freedmen; relationship with Nero and Britannicus; events surrounding his death; administrative changes to Rome. Nero, AD 54–68, presentation of Nero as emperor by the ancient sources; early part of his reign and the changing role of Agrippina; Piso conspiracy in AD 65; Tacitus’ and Suetonius’ accounts of the Great Fire of Rome in AD 64; achievements of Corbulo in Armenia; revolt of Vindex; death of Nero and the accession of Galba; Nero’s attitude towards religion, Imperial Cult;