Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will gain a foundational understanding of historiography through the works of Ovid, Vergil, Seneca, Plutarch, and Appian. The student will learn to differentiate between primary and secondary sources and will develop critical thinking skills by analyzing historical texts.

Materials and Prep

• Notebook and pen for taking notes
• Access to texts by Ovid, Vergil, Seneca, Plutarch, and Appian (can be found in public domain or online resources)
• Printed handouts summarizing primary and secondary sources
• Index cards for creating a source comparison chart
• Timer for timed activities

Before the lesson, ensure that the student is familiar with basic definitions of historiography, primary sources, and secondary sources.

Activities

• Text Exploration:

  The student will select one text from each author (Ovid, Vergil, Seneca, Plutarch, and Appian) and spend 10 minutes reading excerpts. Afterward, they will summarize the main themes of each text in their notebook.

• Source Comparison Chart:

  Using index cards, the student will create a comparison chart that lists each author's work as a primary source and then find a secondary source that discusses that work. They will write a brief description of both sources on the cards.

• Group Discussion:

  Engage in a discussion about the differences between primary and secondary sources. The student will present their findings from the comparison chart and share their thoughts on how each author’s perspective shapes historical understanding.

• Creative Writing:

  The student will choose one historical event discussed in the texts and write a short fictional narrative from the perspective of a character involved in that event, incorporating elements from the historiographical texts.

Talking Points

• "Historiography is the study of how history is written. Each author brings their own perspective and biases to their work."
• "Primary sources are original documents or firsthand accounts, while secondary sources analyze and interpret those primary sources."
• "Ovid's works often blend myth with history, which can complicate our understanding of historical events."
• "Vergil's 'Aeneid' serves not only as a story but also as a piece of propaganda for Rome, showcasing how literature can influence historical narrative."
• "Seneca’s writings provide insight into Stoicism and how philosophical thought can shape historical context."
• "Plutarch’s 'Parallel Lives' compares Greek and Roman figures, offering a unique lens through which we can view historical figures."
• "Appian's historical accounts are valuable for understanding the complexities of Roman history and the various cultures it encompassed."