RRE4203 – Minucius Felix's Octavius: Pagans and Christians, dialogue and polemic
Course content
Marcus Minucius Felix was one of the earliest of the Latin apologists for Christianity. His treatise “Octavius” is probably written between the end of the second and the beginning of the third century. The text is composed as a dialogue where Christianity is defended against pagan accusations. Caecilius Natalis defends the cause of paganism, Octavius Januarius that of Christianity; the author himself is the judge of the debate. The text represents remarkable rhetorical, philosophical and intellectual insights. There are for example references to Cicero, Seneca, and Virgil. But “Octavius” is also puzzling since central Christian conceptions are missing; even Christ is not referred to.
Minucius Felix was possibly a North African lawyer and rhetor, and there are close ties between “Octavius” and Tertullian’s “Apologeticum”. There is a long discussion going on about whom of the two writers is directly dependent on the other.
Learning outcome
The student will acquire:
- Comprehensive knowledge of early arguments between pagans and Christians.
- Skills in analysing, discussing and interpreting a primary source text.
- The ability to demonstrate such skills and communicate such knowledge in writing.
Admission
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.
Prerequisites
Formal prerequisite knowledge
A minimum of 10 ECTS of Latin.
Teaching
The teaching will combine:
- Compact seminar in Bergen.
- Tutorials at your home university.
- Distance learning, with written assignments. E.-tivities on the e.-learning platform Aula.
During the present course we will closely analyze 30 pages of the Latin text. The rest will be read in English translation. One third of the curriculum (syllabus) is chosen by the student – i.e. 300 pp.
Access to teaching
A student who has completed compulsory instruction and coursework and has had these approved, is not entitled to repeat that instruction and coursework. A student who has been admitted to a course, but who has not completed compulsory instruction and coursework or had these approved, is entitled to repeat that instruction and coursework, depending on available capacity.
Examination
Paper to be handed in.
Language of examination
The examination text is given in English, and you submit your response in English.
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.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.