This book introduces students to the chief disciplines, methods and sources employed in 'doing' ancient history, as opposed to 'reading' it. The book:


Encourages readers to engage with historical sources, rather than to be passive recipients of historical tales

Gives readers a sense of the nature of evidence and its use in the reconstruction of the past

Helps them to read a historical narrative with more critical appreciation

Encourages them to consider the differences between their own experience of ancient sources, and the use of these objects within the everyday life of ancient society

A concise bibliographical essay at the end of each chapter refers to introductions, indices, research tools and interpretations, and explains scholarly jargon

Written clearly, concisely and concretely, invoking ancient illustrations and modern parallels as appropriate.