Explore the rise and glory of two of the greatest civilizations in history, and learn the tragedy of their decline and fall.

Total classes: 14

Duration per class: 55 minutes
Prerequisite: None
Suggested grade level: 6th to 9th grade. 10th grade and up are also welcome - adjustments can be made to assignments for older students.
Suggested credit: One full semester History or Ancient History

Instructor: Christopher Martin, PhD

Instructor email: chrisgooverthere@yahoo.com


Course Description: This course traces the rise, reign, and rule of two of the most important civilizations: Ancient Greece, and Ancient Rome. This includes their legendary founders and heroes, including Romulus and Remus, Achilles and Agamemnon, Augustus Caesar and even the revolt of Spartacus.

Course Outline:

Week 1: Introduction and overview of syllabus and assignments
            Ancient Greece
Week 2: The Greek Awakening
Week 3: The Persian Wars
Week 4: Athens and Sparta
Week 5: The Rise of Macedon
Week 6: Alexander the Great
Week 7: From Alexander to Hadrian
            Ancient Rome
Week 8: Legendary Beginnings
Week 9: The Growth of Empire
Week 10: The End of the Republic
Week 11: The Rule of Emperors
Week 12: Crisis and Catastrophe
Week 13: Reconstruction and Revival
Week 14: Decline and Fall

Course materials: All course materials are provided FREE by the instructor.

Homework: Writing is an integral part of demonstrating both the assimilation of knowledge and the articulation thereof. Therefore, students will be guided through the process of writing a short  (1-2 page, double-spaced) review of a book of their choice relevant to the subject matter.

NOTE: High School students taking this course may instead write a 3-5 page book review
Also, students will have one short (5-10 minute), ungraded review quiz per week based on classroom lectures and discussions.