Schedule, syllabus and examination date

Course content

The course provides first a general introduction to Greek drama of the classical period (Athenian context of development, authors and works, transmission of the plays, some important interpretative trends throughout time). In the second and main part of the course we read, translate and interpret one or more dramatic plays (tragedies or comedies) and related works. We read approximately 1200-1500 verses of Greek text, depending on the level of difficulty. Additionally, we will examine and discuss secondary literature relevant to the texts under examination.

Learning outcome

After completing this subject, you will be able to:

  • independently read and translate the selected Greek texts into Norwegian and/or English and interpret them.
  • identify and explain the meter of the selected texts and discuss its peculiarities.
  • identify and analyse the distinctive stylistic features of the Greek author(s) and elucidate their role in shaping the texts, as well as?discuss aspects of Greek grammar relevant to the understanding of the Greek texts.
  • discuss the development of the genre of Greek drama and provide examples of its main features and evolution.
  • interpret the texts considering relevant historical, literary-historical, literary, and/or cultural aspects.

Admission to the course

Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO, must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.

If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.

Formal prerequisite knowledge

(or equivalent knowledge - contact the department if you have studied Greek elsewhere)

Teaching

14 two-hour seminars.

We expect you to participate actively in the seminars through:

  • weekly preparations of Greek text passages (translations)

  • occasional critical reading (secondary literature)

  • regular oral contribution; participation in class discussions, reading out loud

In order for you to be allowed to sit for the final examination,?the following compulsory tuition activities must be approved by the teacher:

  • Attendance: You must attend at least 10 of the 14 seminars

  • Oral presentation (presentation with powerpoint/handout on an aspect of the syllabus texts which is touched upon in the secondary literature)

Approved tuition activity is valid also for the next two semesters in which the course is offered.

Examination

Written examination (4 hours).

Written examinations are carried out in the digital examination system Inspera. You must familiarize yourself with the digital examination arrangements in Inspera before your written exam.?Read more about digital school exams.

In order for you to qualify for the final examination, all compulsory tuition activities must be approved by the teacher.

Examination support material

No examination support material is allowed.

Language of examination

You may submit your response in Norwegian, Swedish, Danish or English. If you would prefer to have the exam text in English, you may apply to the course administrators.

Grading scale

Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.

More about examinations at UiO

You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.

Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) June 1, 2025 5:44:04 PM

Facts about this course

Level
Bachelor
Credits
10
Teaching
Autumn

The course is offered every third autumn semester, starting from autumn 2025.

Examination
Autumn
Teaching language
Norwegian (English on request)