LFU:online

Critical analysis of historical sources. The acquisition of key qualifications needed for the successful completion of pro-seminars and seminars; the acquisition of communicative and presentational competencies.

Procopius may be our most important souce for the sixth century - without any doubt he is our most extensive one. This is why he has a key role in the understanding of that time. But he is also a very controversial author. Because of various contradictions in each of his three known texts (the existence of these contradictions seems itself a contradiction given the careful crafting of the overall narrative) and because of the starkly contradictory positioning of himself towards empire and emperor, a coherent interpretation of this author is still very much debated. We will use this fascinating and complex author to train ourselves in the crucial methods of source criticism (Quellenkritik) and interpretation.

Combination of lecture, reading tasks and source-presentations of the participants

Active participation and a short presentation (without assessment); essay (4-7 pages);

Will be discussed in the first lesson.

For preparation: Cameron, Averil, Procopius and the sixth Century, London 1985

For background knowledge: Meier, Mischa, Justinian. Herrschaft, Reich und Religion, München 2004

It is recommanded to absolve the "VO 3 Basiswissen"-lecture in ancient history.

Online registration.

Limited attendance.

You need to be present in the first session.