Herodotus and the history of the Persian Wars

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Course code: S6SR

This course deals with Herodotus' colourful and entertaining 'history'.

when: From 12 Jan 2027 to 23 Mar 2027
Tuesday 13:00-15:00 10 weeks
Tutor: Richard Stride

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £168.00, concession fee £102.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

A history of ancient Greece’s struggle against the mighty Persian empire. We’ll look at the wildly different societies of Athens and Sparta, drawing heavily on the entertaining work of Herodotus to outline the characters and events of the time.

What can students expect?

Often cited as ‘the first historian’ Herodotus wrote an account of the history of Greece during the tumultuous period of the Persian wars. But it’s not ‘history’ as we’re used to – it’s a mix of stories, myths, opinions and facts; in fact Herodotus was writing to entertain rather than inform. The course uses his writings in context with other sources to learn about the events and characters of the time, and includes a section on ancient Sparta.

Late starters allowed?

Yes

Previous experience required?

No previous knowledge of the ancient world is expected or required.

What is the progression route?

I run a range of courses on the ancient Greek world.

Are there any extra costs?

No

Work set between sessions?

No

Teaching method/style?

I describe my style as ‘informal lecture’. I aim to use pictures wherever possible, and I welcome interruptions, questions and digressions.

Course Cancellations and Refunds

If we cancel your course

<ul>
<li>You will receive a full refund of course fees.</li>
<li>We are not responsible for any additional costs, such as materials already purchased.</li>
</ul>

If you cancel

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: refund minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no refund provided.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
</ul>

Refund processing

<ul>
<li>Refunds for online or telephone enrolments will be made via the original payment method within 14 days of approval. </li>
<li>If you enrolled in the office, you will need to come in with your payment card to arrange a refund.</li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: transfer minus a 10% transfer fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no transfer provided.</li>
<li>All transfers are subject to availability.</li>
<li>Transfers between Language levels may be possible with less than 7 days notice, subject to availability.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
<li>If we cancel your course, and you wish to transfer to another course this will be free of charge.</li>
</ul>

Illness and non-attendance

<ul>
<li>We recognise that illness and unforeseen circumstances may arise. However, please note that we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or transfers for missed sessions due to ill health or non-attendance.</li>
</ul>