This module explores epic poetry within its literary and socio-cultural contexts during the Roman imperial period. Students will study up to two core set texts in detail, and consider broader related themes and issues including (but not limited to) authorship, generic conventions, literature and politics, epic and the Roman emperors, philosophy, heroism, and rhetoric. Through lectures and seminar discussions, students will gain a detailed understanding of the literary culture of the Roman empire, epic traditions and innovations, and the influence of contemporary socio-political currents on the writing of poetry under the Roman emperors. Building on skills of literary analysis and knowledge of Roman culture and society developed in Years 1 and 2, this module will allow students to practice sophisticated close-reading and analysis, further improve their critical evaluation of relevant modern scholarship, and further develop key transferable communication skills including academic writing, visual presentation, and public speaking.