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Module Overview

Roman Britain provides an excellent case study of the operation of Roman imperialism and its impact on local societies. In this module, we will pursue both historical and thematic perspectives on the cultural changes that occurred in the province through several hundred years of Roman influence and occupation. Topics covered include the military and social impact of the Roman army, the development of Romano-British towns, the mixing of religious ideas in provincial society, approaches to studying Roman material culture, and the interaction between archaeological and historical sources.

Aims

This module is concerned with the history and archaeology of Britain from the first century BC to the fifth century AD. In general terms the aim of the module is to give students who are interested in the Roman empire the chance to study a single province in depth and to familiarise themselves with the available evidence whether written (limited) or archaeological (relatively abundant). As such it should serve as a starting point for a study of other provinces of the empire by providing a base line for comparison and contrast. For students interested in the subsequent history of Britain, the module also provides the essential background to the arrival of Saxon settlers in England as well as to the introduction of Christianity which survived in areas beyond Saxon control.

Objectives

On successful completion of the module students should have:

1. an awareness of the broad outlines of the political and military history of the province from the later pre-Roman iron age to the collapse of direct Roman control in the fifth century AD

2. an understanding of the potential and limitations of written evidence, both the statements of contemporary writers and information provided by inscriptions

3. a knowledge of the ways in which archaeological data can be employed to complement the meagre textual material available and the dangers inherent in making the one ‘fit’ the other

4. a knowledge of the social and economic conditions obtaining in Britain before the Roman conquest and the extent to which these were subsequently altered and modified under Roman rule

5. an awareness of how archaeological theory is applicable to the period covered by the module Since the material covered is easily accessible, students may, on completion, have identified possible subjects for third year undergraduate dissertations.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students should have developed:

1. observation and critical reflection skills, in lectures and through consideration of readings

2. application of acquired knowledge, through oral contributions and written work

3. independent research skills, through preparation for essays and exams

4. written and oral presentation skills

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