Cultural Course

Ancient Rome

Uncover the legacy of Ancient Rome with an immersive course that brings history to life through engaging, university-style lessons.

Step into the Empire

Discover the legacy of Ancient Rome through history and culture. Step into the fascinating world of Ancient Rome with an immersive course that brings its history, politics, and culture to life. These expert-led sessions explore the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, from the power struggles of Julius Caesar to the architectural marvels of the Colosseum and aqueducts. Discover how Roman law, philosophy, and engineering shaped Western civilisation, and gain a deeper understanding of daily life, military conquests, and the lasting impact of Rome's innovations on the modern world.

A 30-Lesson Academic Journey

Course Syllabus

PART I

The Rise of Rome & The Republic

1.

The Origins of Rome

Explore the legendary founding of Rome, from Romulus and Remus to historical realities and early myth.

2.

The Establishment of the Republic

Discover how Rome transitioned from monarchy to republic, with institutions like the Senate and consuls.

3.

First Expansion into Italy

Learn how Rome expanded its influence, overcoming Etruscans, Samnites, and Latin rivals.

4.

The Punic Wars

Uncover the epic rivalry between Rome and Carthage, naval battles, and Scipio Africanus' victories.

5.

Rome's Eastern Expansion

Trace Rome's conquests in Greece, Egypt, and Asia Minor, transforming into a dominant power.

6.

Structure of Roman Society

Delve into citizen rights, the roles of women, slaves, and family life in a rigid social hierarchy.

7.

Roman Religion

Explore practices from household gods to grand state festivals and the integration of foreign deities.

8.

The Roman Economy

Understand the backbone of Rome's economy: agriculture, trade, slavery, and taxation.

9.

Reform and Revolt

Examine the social upheavals led by the Gracchi brothers' reforms and the rebellion of Spartacus.

PART II

Fall of the Republic & Rise of Empire

10.

Gaius Marius: Homo Novus

Learn how Marius revolutionised the Roman army, setting the stage for the Republic's transformation.

11.

Sulla: The Preserver

Discover how Sulla seized power, restructured the Senate, and paved the way for later autocrats.

12.

Pompey in the East

Follow Pompey's military campaigns expanding influence over Syria, Judea, and Asia Minor.

13.

Julius Caesar in Gaul

Explore Caesar's conquest of Gaul, his rise to power, and how his success reshaped politics.

14.

Pompey vs Caesar

Unravel the dramatic civil war that reshaped Rome's future and led to the fall of the Republic.

15.

Caesar's Inheritance

Examine the political chaos after Caesar's assassination as Octavian clashed with Mark Antony.

16.

Art, Architecture, Literature

Discover the cultural achievements of the late Republic and literary giants like Cicero.

17.

The Rule of Augustus

Learn how Augustus transformed Rome, stabilising politics and laying the foundation of the empire.

18.

The 'Augustan Age'

Explore the golden age of culture, as poets like Virgil and Horace defined Augustus' legacy.

19.

Living and Dying

Step into daily life, from bustling markets and lavish feasts to funerary customs and the afterlife.

PART III

The Imperial Era & The Golden Age

20.

The Julio-Claudians

Trace the reigns of emperors from Augustus to Nero as Rome's first dynasty shaped politics and intrigue.

21.

The Civil War of 69 CE

Follow the chaotic "Year of the Four Emperors," which ended with Vespasian establishing the Flavians.

22.

Entertainment in Rome

Dive into Rome's love of entertainment, from gladiatorial combat and chariot racing to theatre.

23.

Trajan and Hadrian

Discover how they expanded the empire, built architectural marvels, and ushered in peace and prosperity.

24.

Marcus Aurelius

Explore the challenges Rome faced under the philosophical emperor and the turbulent Severan dynasty.

PART IV

Decline, Transformation & Legacy

25.

Military Anarchy

See how Rome descended into chaos with civil wars, paving the way for the rise of Christianity.

26.

Diocletian: The Saviour

Learn how Diocletian's reforms, including the Tetrarchy, temporarily stabilised the crumbling empire.

27.

Constantine

Examine his rule, from military victories to legalising Christianity and founding Constantinople.

28.

Constantine's Successors

Understand how later rulers struggled with invasions, economic woes, and internal power struggles.

29.

The Final Years

Explore the fall of the Western Roman Empire, as barbarian invasions sealed its fate in 476 CE.

30.

Byzantium: Rome in the East

See how the Eastern Roman Empire carried Rome's legacy forward for another thousand years.

Who is this course for?

A Journey for Every Curious Mind

History Enthusiasts

Uncover the battles, rulers, and revolutions that shaped an empire. Experience the pivotal moments that defined Western history.

Language Learners

Understanding Rome's influence provides valuable insights into Latin roots, historical inscriptions, and classical texts.

Travellers & Explorers

Planning to visit Italy? Discover the history behind ancient sites like the Colosseum, the Forum, and Pompeii before you arrive.

Art & Architecture Lovers

Explore the brilliance of aqueducts, temples, and amphitheatres, uncovering how Roman designs influenced cities across the globe.

Students & Academics

Ideal for students of classical history, offering a detailed look at Roman governance, military power, and philosophical thought.

Culture Seekers

If you've ever been captivated by gladiators or Roman mythology, this course brings the ancient world to life with storytelling.

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What will I learn in this Ancient Rome course?

This course takes you through the rise and fall of Ancient Rome, covering its political structures, military conquests, cultural achievements, and lasting impact on the modern world. You'll explore the Republic's foundation, key historical figures like Julius Caesar and Augustus, and the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Lessons dive into daily Roman life, its religious beliefs, artistic developments, and how Rome's innovations in law, architecture, and governance continue to shape modern civilisation.

Do I need any prior historical knowledge?

No prior historical knowledge is required, making this course accessible to all learners. The lessons are structured to provide clear explanations of key events, figures, and cultural aspects while making complex topics easy to understand. Whether you're a beginner or an enthusiast wanting a deeper dive, each session builds upon previous lessons to develop a well-rounded understanding.

How are the lessons structured and delivered?

Lessons are delivered online via Microsoft Teams, ensuring a flexible and interactive learning experience. Each 45-minute session includes a mix of storytelling, historical analysis, and visual resources. Classes follow a university-style format, blending detailed explanations with open discussions, allowing you to ask questions and dive deeper into topics that interest you.

What are the pricing options?

Individual lessons are £25 per 45-minute session. You can purchase a package of 3 lessons for £60 (£20/lesson) or 10 lessons for £180 (£18/lesson). The full 30-lesson course is available for £400. You can also combine language and cultural lessons (e.g., 1-hour language + 45-min cultural lesson for £50).

What if I need to reschedule or cancel?

You can reschedule a lesson at no extra cost with at least 24 hours' notice. Cancellations within 24 hours will be charged the full fee. Unused lessons in a package remain valid for a set period (one month for 3-packs, four months for 10-packs). In medical emergencies, lessons can be paused and resumed later.

Start your Italian journey

STEP INTO THE WORLD OF ANCIENT ROME

and Explore Its Legacy

Uncover the fascinating history, politics, and cultural achievements of Ancient Rome with engaging, expert-led lessons.