This outline provides a structured approach to preparing for the advanced level of the National Latin Exam's Certamen competition. It focuses on key areas and suggests effective study strategies for success. Remember, consistent review and practice are crucial. This outline is designed to be a springboard for your own deeper research and study.
I. Roman History (Republic & Empire): This forms the largest portion of the Advanced Certamen.
A. The Roman Republic (509-27 BC):
- 1. The Early Republic: Focus on the establishment of the Republic, the struggle of the orders (Patricians vs. Plebeians), the development of key institutions (Senate, Consuls, Assemblies, Tribunes), and early conflicts (e.g., wars against Etruscans, Samnites). Key figures: Romulus, Remus, Cincinnatus, the Gracchi brothers.
- 2. The Punic Wars: Detailed knowledge of all three wars, including key battles (Cannae, Zama), strategic decisions, and their impact on Rome's expansion and political landscape. Key figures: Hannibal, Scipio Africanus.
- 3. The Late Republic: Understand the rise of powerful generals (Marius, Sulla, Pompey, Caesar), the breakdown of traditional institutions, civil wars, and the factors leading to the end of the Republic. Focus on the political machinations, reforms, and the changing social dynamics. Key figures: Julius Caesar, Pompey, Crassus, Cicero, Cato.
- 4. Sources for the Late Republic: Familiarize yourself with primary sources like Caesar's Gallic Wars, Cicero's letters and speeches, and Sallust's Catiline. Understanding the biases and perspectives of these sources is crucial.
B. The Roman Empire (27 BC - 476 AD):
- 1. The Principate (27 BC - 284 AD): Understand Augustus's rise to power, the establishment of the imperial system, and the Pax Romana. Focus on key emperors (Augustus, Tiberius, Claudius, Nero, Vespasian, Trajan, Hadrian, Marcus Aurelius, Septimius Severus) and their reigns, including major achievements, crises, and administrative reforms.
- 2. The Crisis of the Third Century: Learn about the period of instability, civil wars, and economic decline. Understand the factors that contributed to this crisis and the solutions attempted by emperors like Diocletian and Constantine.
- 3. The Dominate (284 - 476 AD): Understand the administrative reforms of Diocletian and Constantine, the division of the Empire, the rise of Christianity, and the fall of the Western Roman Empire. Key figures: Diocletian, Constantine, Theodosius I.
- 4. Roman Law: A basic understanding of Roman legal principles and their influence on later legal systems is beneficial.
II. Greek History: A significant portion, though generally less than Roman history.
A. The Archaic Period:
- 1. The rise of the polis: Understand the development of the independent city-states (poleis) and their political systems.
- 2. Key city-states: Focus on Athens, Sparta, and Corinth, their political structures, and their roles in early Greek history.
- 3. Early conflicts: The Greco-Persian Wars are crucial, including key battles (Marathon, Thermopylae, Salamis).
B. The Classical Period:
- 1. The Athenian Empire and the Peloponnesian War: A thorough understanding of the conflict between Athens and Sparta, its causes, major battles, and consequences is essential.
- 2. Philosophers and writers: Knowledge of major figures like Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Sophocles, Euripides, and Herodotus is important. Be familiar with their key ideas and works.
C. The Hellenistic Period:
- 1. Alexander the Great: His conquests and the spread of Greek culture throughout the Near East.
- 2. The Hellenistic kingdoms: A basic understanding of the successor states after Alexander's death.
III. Mythology: Frequently tested, but often integrated with history.
- 1. Major Gods and Goddesses: Thorough knowledge of their roles, relationships, and myths.
- 2. Key Myths: Familiarize yourself with significant myths, including those related to prominent heroes (e.g., Heracles, Theseus, Odysseus).
IV. Geography: Crucial for contextualizing events.
- 1. The Mediterranean World: Develop a strong mental map of the region, including key cities, rivers, and geographical features. This is essential for understanding military campaigns and political interactions.
V. Study Strategies:
- Flashcards: Excellent for memorizing key terms, dates, and figures.
- Timeline: Creating a visual timeline of key events can help you understand the chronological sequence of history.
- Practice Questions: Regular practice with Certamen-style questions is crucial for success.
- Team Practice: Working with teammates allows for collaborative learning and quizzing.
This outline offers a comprehensive framework. Remember to consult your textbook, supplementary materials, and your teacher for more detailed information and specific areas of focus. Good luck with your preparations!
