Although ancient history, by definition, took place in an era that may seem distant, the happenings of the ancient world established many of our modern societal customs and values, from effective sewage systems to democracy much of it started with the Romans, Greeks and Egyptians. It’s easy to see why exploring history is essential to fully understanding the here and now. Are you thinking about signing up for a history class? Our classes are a great way to explore a range of subjects to find the ones you love, with no pressure and no exams. Our tutors are friendly and qualified, and our courses are open to anyone over 18 – no experience or prior skills required.
The legend of King Arthur is the enduring myth of English literature. Drawing on written texts and archaeological evidence, we will uncover how much of this myth is based on fact and how much has developed through purely fictional accounts. Examine the development of the myth from its beginnings around 500AD, through the legend's resurgence in...
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<p>The legend of King Arthur is the enduring myth of English literature. Drawing on written texts and archaeological evidence, we will uncover how much of this myth is based on fact and how much has
From the 8th to 4th centuries BC, the sophisticated and innovative Etruscans dominated the beautiful area of Italy now known as Tuscany. Their ancient native culture interacted with those of Greece and Phoenicia to produce an astonishing array of frescos, jewellery, sculpture and pottery. The Etruscans were famous for their oracles, metalwork, and...
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<p>From the 8th to 4th centuries BC, the sophisticated and innovative Etruscans dominated the beautiful area of Italy now known as Tuscany. Their ancient native culture interacted with those of Greece
Tutankhamun’s tomb is justifiably famous, but archaeological history holds so many more amazing surprises and stories! Meet some of the larger than life personalities involved in the early stages of archaeology, famous (and infamous) archaeologists, men and women whose lives were full of adventure, danger - and occasionally scandal! Visit their...
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<p>Tutankhamun’s tomb is justifiably famous, but archaeological history holds so many more amazing surprises and stories! Meet some of the larger than life personalities involved in the early stages
One of the greatest pleasures any visitor to Rome can have is to follow in the footsteps of centurions and saints on the Empire’s most famous road, passing tombs, catacombs, churches, circuses and villas through vistas of incomparable beauty. The very stones beneath your feet are nearly 2000 years old, but the road encompasses and defies time –...
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<p>One of the greatest pleasures any visitor to Rome can have is to follow in the footsteps of centurions and saints on the Empire’s most famous road, passing tombs, catacombs, churches, circuses and
During the past 150 years, archaeological excavations in the Near East has brought to light the ancient civilisations of this region. In popular imagination this is dominated by the impressive monumental temples and pyramids of Egypt, the tomb of Tutankhamen, the Rosetta stone, and the winged bulls and palace reliefs from the ruined royal cities of...
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<p>During the past 150 years, archaeological excavations in the Near East has brought to light the ancient civilisations of this region. In popular imagination this is dominated by the impressive
The culture of Egypt has been amazingly influential on Australia from early colonial times, through the Great War and into the 1930s and 40s. This course will look at monuments, architecture, gardens and artefacts which are hidden around Australia and reflect our admiration (indeed our obsession) for ancient Egypt. We will meet some Australians who...
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<p>The culture of Egypt has been amazingly influential on Australia from early colonial times, through the Great War and into the 1930s and 40s. This course will look at monuments, architecture,
Ancient Greek engineers, such as Archimedes of Syracuse, Philon of Byzantium, Heron of Alexandria, and Pappus of Alexandria, invented and used numerous mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic devices. Greeks measured distance with hodometers and time with sundials and clepsydras (hydraulic clocks), and made hydraulic alarm clocks. They used complicated...
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In the past eras, women wishing to do mathematics had to overcome the persistent difficulties and prejudices before fulfilment of their dream. They had to occupy a special position in society like belonging to high royal family or being a daughter or a wife of an academic supporting her love for mathematics. Despite all difficulties, women of the...
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Arguably the most archetypical image of Rome is that of the gladiator fighting in the arena. The “sword and sandal” epics of popular culture often emphasise the amphitheatre as a place of Christian martyrdom – but how accurate is that image? What were the origins of these bloody spectator sports, who took part – and why? The answers may surprise...
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This course has no current classes. Please
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As ‘the land between the rivers’, Mesopotamia (modern day Iraq), formed a significant part of the Fertile Crescent. It was home to the earliest of civilizations, the Sumerians, and at various times in its history hosted the ancient world’s ‘superpowers’: the Babylonians, Hittites, Assyrians and Persians. Alexander the Great was mesmerised by its...
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<p>As ‘the land between the rivers’, Mesopotamia (modern day Iraq), formed a significant part of the Fertile Crescent. It was home to the earliest of civilizations, the Sumerians, and at various times
