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2013/14 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

CLAS3970 Ancient Magic

20 creditsClass Size: 65

Module manager: Dr Ken Belcher
Email: K.Belcher@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2013/14

This module is approved as an Elective

This module is approved as a Skills Elective

Module summary

This module provides an introduction to various aspects of ancient magical practices, the sources relevant to the study of ancient magic, literary texts and, more broadly, related topics such as the Holy man in classical antiquity. The recommended text is G. Luck, Arcana Mundi 2nd ed. (Baltimore 2006).

Objectives

The primary objective of this module is that students should acquire an insight into Greek and Roman literature, culture and society from a unique perspective, namely through detailed study of
- beliefs and practices concerning magic and the occult;
- ancient magical texts;
- literary works in which magical themes are prominent.

Learning outcomes
Students completing this module are expected to have acquired an understanding of:
- ancient attitudes to magic;
- ancient magical beliefs and practices;
- the sources relating to all aspects of ancient magic;
- the place of magic in literary texts.

Skills outcomes
Upon completion of the module, students should be able to engage in analysis and evaluation of the various sources for ancient magical beliefs and practices and to consider the Greco-Roman world from a unique perspective.

Syllabus

The module will provide an overview of topics related to ancient magic. The module will cover the following topics:
- theories of magic;
- ancient magic practice;
- demonology;
- theories of witchcraft;
- witchcraft in Greek and Latin literature;
- the theme of necromancy;
- the Holy Man in classical antiquity and literature.
Texts will be read in English translations and will be provided by way of handouts and the VLE. The recommended text is: G. Luck, Arcana Mundi 2nd ed. (Baltimore 2006)

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	18	1.00	18.00
Seminar	2	1.00	2.00
Private study hours			180.00
Total Contact hours			20.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			200.00

Private study

Reading primary texts = 60 hours
Lecture preparation = 25 hours
Seminar preparation = 15 hours
Essay = 50 hours
Exam Preparation = 30 hours

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Seminar participation; written coursework; and examination.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Essay	Maximum 2,500 words.	50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		50.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Exam with advance information on questions	2 hr 00 mins	50.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		50.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 30/04/2014

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