MA Classics - Focal Area Papyrology and Auxiliary Historical Disciplines
Papyrology is the study of Greek and Latin texts, in particular, that have been preserved in papyrus, wooden tablets, pottery sherds (ostraca) or other portable writing materials. These texts originate predominantly from Greco-Roman Egypt and encompass a wide range of documents: from literary works and religious writings to private letters, cintracts, tax receipts and magical texts. Through their cataloguing and analysis, they provide direct insights into everyday life in the ancient world – insights that are often not available from other sources.
The MA Classics preserves the strengths of specialized expertise in the classical studies of the ancient world – which are excellently represented in Heidelberg across the individual disciplines – and complements them with a multifaceted, interdisciplinary, and comparative approach to the cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and adjacent regions. Students receive a sound education in their chosen focal area, which qualifies them for a doctorate, whilst at the same time developing a broad interdisciplinary perspective. This enables them to address complex research questions from multiple perspectives and with methodological rigour.
Each focal area pursues specific qualification objectives tailored to the degree programme. The modules offer in-depth study within specific disciplines and ensure eligibility for doctoral studies. The fundamental interdisciplinary approach is reflected in joint courses that transcend disciplinary boundaries.
Subject-specific learning objectives
Together with Epigraphy and Numismatics, Papyrology forms the core historical disciplines that serve as the methodological foundation for the study of primary historical sources.
The aim of these disciplines is to decipher historical sources with the greatest possible accuracy, to situate them within their historical context, and to interpret them. In doing so, they combine philological precision with an interest in cultural history, thereby making an indispensable contribution to our understanding of ancient societies.
The Institute of Papyrology at Heidelberg University is the only independent university institution in Germany dedicated to the advancement of Papyrology in both research and teaching.
The extensive collection of papyri, parchments, rag paper and ostraca from Egypt comprises some 11,000 items. In addition, there is a comprehensive specialist academic library dedicated to Papyrology. The work of Papyrologists involves deciphering unedited papyri, producing a transcription and subsequently translating the texts.
During their studies, students learn not only how to read these texts, but ultimately also how to publish them, including through the use of digital methods.
