Andrew Bayliss

Dr Andrew Bayliss serves as Associate Professor in Greek History and Head of the Department of Classics, Ancient History and Archaeology at the University of Birmingham. With expertise spanning Spartan society, Athenian politics, and the Hellenistic period, he emphasizes how ancient source analysis develops critical thinking skills applicable to modern information landscapes.

His academic foundation includes:

• PhD in Ancient History from Macquarie University
• First Class Honours Degree in History (majoring in Ancient History)
• Diploma of Education

Bayliss's research centers on Classical Spartan society, particularly Spartan citizen psychology through a database of ancient references to emotions and behaviors. His work extends to helot studies in Spartan rural territories. Previous scholarship covers Greek oaths, Athenian epigraphy, Alexander's Successors, and 18th-century perceptions of antiquity, reflecting interdisciplinary depth in historical methodology.

Recent publications reveal a concentrated Spartan focus in books like The Spartans: A very short introduction (2022) and encyclopedia contributions spanning Greek comedy and political systems. The output demonstrates evolving attention to Spartan emotional frameworks while maintaining core interests in Athenian governance and Hellenistic transitions.

Bayliss mentors doctoral candidates in Spartan society, Athenian politics, Alexander the Great, and early Hellenistic studies. He teaches core modules including 'The Greek World' and 'Rethinking the Ancient World,' while coordinating specialized courses like 'The Spartan kosmos.' His leadership of the departmental Study Tour to Greek archaeological sites underscores commitment to experiential learning.