HKAK03211U KL. ARK Classical Archaeology: Words and images. The archaeology of ekphrasis

Volume 2025/2026
Education

Classical Archaeology

Content

This seminar explores the dynamic interplay between verbal description and visual representation in classical antiquity through the lens of ekphrasis, the literary technique of vividly depicting and inventing works of visual art. By examining key examples from Greek and Roman texts, we investigate how detailed portrayals of architecture, sculpture, and other artifacts not only enrich our understanding of ancient aesthetics but also serve as vital archaeological evidence. The course will highlight case studies where ekphrastic passages have (seemingly) aided in reconstructing lost artworks and deciphering cultural practices, laying a finger on the difficult relationship of literary sources and archaeological material. Participants will engage with primary sources and recent scholarly debates to critically assess the role of ekphrasis in shaping our perception of the visual and cultural landscapes of antiquity.

J. A. Francis, Metal Maidens, Achilles' Shield, and Pandora : the Beginnings of "Ekphrasis", in AJPh 130, 2009, 1-23

J. Elsener, Ekphrasis and the gaze. From Roman poetry to domestic wall painting, J. Elsner (ed.), Roman eyes: visuality and subjectivity in art and text (2007)

F. De Armas, Simple Magic: Ekphrasis from Antiquity to the Age of Cervantes, in F. De Armas (Hrsg.), Ekphrasis in the Age of Cervantes (2005), 31-31

C. M. Chinn, Before your very eyes. Pliny, Epistulae 5.6 and the ancient theory of ekphrasis, in Classical Philology 102, 2007, 265-280

F. I. Zeitlin, Figure: Ekphrasis, in GaR 60, Nr. 1, 2013, 17-31

O. Primavesi – L. Giuliani, Bild und Rede. Zum Proömium der Eikones des zweiten Philostrat, in Poetica 44, Nr. 1/2, 2012, 25–79

A. S. Becker, The shield of Achilles and the poetics of ekphrasis (1995)

C. M. Chinn, Visualizing the poetry of Statius: an intertextual approach (2022)

R. Webb, Ekphrasis, imagination and persuasion in ancient rhetorical theory and practice (2009)

Group instructions, lectures, excursions, exercises,
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Lectures
  • 42
  • Class Instruction
  • 42
  • Preparation
  • 154
  • Total
  • 238
Oral
Individual
Continuous feedback during the course of the semester
Peer feedback (Students give each other feedback)
Credit
15 ECTS
Type of assessment
Other
Examination prerequisites

Se aktuelle studieordninger

Aid
Only certain aids allowed (see description below)

Materials permitted at the exam appears from the curriculum.