PhD Cohort 2021
Funding: AHRC DTP
Project Title: Remembering Republican Leaders, Constructing Imperial Lives: Suetonius and the Dawn of the Roman Empire
Supervisors: Dr Alice König, Dr Tom Geue, School of Classics at the University of St Andrews, and Prof Gavin Kelly, School of History, Classics and Archeology at the University of Edinburgh
What was your research about?
My thesis explores the importance of Republican history and its memory to enhance our understanding Suetonius’ Lives of the Caesars (II Cent. AD), with a particular focus on the lives of Caesar and Augustus. Drawing on memory studies and interdiscursivity, I explore, for the first time, how key figures and events of the late Roman Republic have informed Suetonius’ narrative and provide novel insight into the political and historical dimensions of Suetonius’ text.
What made you apply for the SGSAH AHRC DTP?
I undertook a PhD primarily to develop my research skills in order to pursuit my dream of becoming a lecturer and researcher in Classics.
Which aspects of your PhD did you enjoy the most?
The possibility to learn how to use new evidence from the ancient world, such as coinage, which also enriched my methodology and abilities as ancient historian. In addition, I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to learn from well-established scholars such as Dr König, Dr Geue, Prof. Kelly, who supervised me, as well as from all the people I met during my PhD.
How has your PhD helped you to decide on a career path?
I always had very clear ideas about my career path. The PhD allowed me to learn more about the academic world and the additional responsibilities lecturers have alongside research.
And now?
I am currently working as a Teaching Fellow in Roman History and Epigraphy at the University of Warwick. In addition, I am writing a couple of articles to submit to journals and working on revising my PhD to publish my monograph.
One piece of advice you would give an incoming PhD researcher?
Find a topic you are passionate about and follow it despite the difficulties you might encounter.
Where can people find you?
University of Warwick staff profile: https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/arts/classics/intranets/staff/martino