How Rome Got its Start


This class explores the emergence and development of Roman civilization from the foundation of the city of Rome to the time of the Third Punic War (2nd century BCE). Students will be introduced to the works of ancient Roman poets, historians, and thinkers together with art and archaeology to investigate Roman culture and society, as well as the origin and development of republican government, imperialism, technological innovations, and literary and visual arts. Topics include the roles of women and slaves, Roman religion, and the Punic Wars.

Example Curriculum

  Italy Before Rome
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  The Kings of Rome
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  The Founding of the Republic
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  The Roman Conquest of Italy
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  The First Punic War
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  The Second Punic War and Rome's Rise to Dominance
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Rome Builds an Empire


Dive into the thrilling world of ancient Rome with a course that traces its evolution from a humble village to a formidable empire. Explore Rome’s foundational myths, battles against fierce neighbors, and its innovative political system. Uncover how the Republic’s ambition drove it to conquer rival powers, culminating in the defeat of Greece. Through immersive lectures and captivating primary sources, this course brings Rome’s greatest moments—and darkest intrigues—to life, painting a vivid picture of the Republic’s ascent to dominance.

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Other Courses by Dr. Miano


Browse these other ancient history courses.

The Dawn of Civilization

In this course, we study the emergence of our world’s first complex societies in the ancient Near East, beginning with the earliest settlements in the Epipaleolithic period and finishing with the development of the world’s first empire in the mid-third millennium BCE. We will pay special attention to how societies grew across the expanse of time, from small hunter-gatherer villages to large consolidated states, taking a close look at the invention of agriculture, the wheel, bronze metallurgy, writing, literature, and the development of religion and government. To do this, we will rely on material remains, primary source documents, and art, which illuminate the unique features of ancient Near Eastern societies.

David Miano

David Miano

$100

Assyria and Babylon

Step into the captivating world of the ancient Near East with our comprehensive online course, offering an in-depth exploration of one of history's most influential and dynamic regions, spanning from the 21st to the 6th century BCE. The great Mesopotamian cultures of Assyria and Babylon dominated what is now Iraq thousands of years ago as the world's early superpowers. You'll journey through the rise and fall of these states, uncovering their profound impact on civilization as we know it, and giving you a better understanding of the political, cultural, and social history of the Near East in this time period and an insight into the ancient mindset, contributing to your understanding of the benefits and challenges of this region of the world.

David Miano

David Miano

$100