Late Antique Historiography: Procopius of Caesarea

This course will consider the writings of Procopius of Caesarea (ca. 500-565) in light of his place in Greek literary history, and his cultural context in the Late Roman Empire of Justinian. Sessions will combine a critical reading of texts in Greek with analysis of the author’s historical methods, style, and literary influences. We will study portions of all three of Procopius’ surviving works, beginning with The Wars, and continuing with The Secret History and The Buildings.