This module introduces students to central concepts and features of the classical world in order to lay the foundations of knowledge necessary or more advanced modules in the second and third years. It considers the geographical context of classical civilisation, fundamental concepts such as statehood, periodisation, social structures, urban and rural community constructs, conceptions of citizenship, freedom and slavery, systems of exchange and religion as a foundation of society. It also introduces students to the range of evidence available to ancient historians and how to use it.