ARC 215 – GREAT KINGDOMS OF THE ANCIENT NEAR EAST

This course will give an introduction to the kingdoms of the Ancient Near East which were crucial to the development of the Old World. Basic knowledge about history, topography and society is the starting point for the understanding of each period progressing into explorations of typical elements such as the development of cities with their palaces, temples and ziqqurati, cylinder seals, cuneiform writing and relief sculpture. Points of special interest are the origins of highly developed early civilizations, Mesopotamia as an area of permanent exchange and conflict, the influences on the West, and Near Eastern monuments as part of the world’s cultural heritage.

Pre-requisites: Sophomore standing or permission of the instructor.