107-005 Before Babylon: Ascent to Civilisation

This subject is an introduction to the material culture of the ancient lands of Anatolia, Iran, the Persian Gulf region, Pakistan and India, and Cyprus - the lands surrounding the Syro-Mesopotamian region. The subject will be set within a rigorous theoretical and methodological framework. On completion of the subject students should have acquired a knowledge of the social, political and cultural development of ancient Western Asia in regions other than Syria and Mesopotamia from about 3600 to 330 BC; and have developed a knowledge of archaeological methods to study processes of cultural change and interaction.

• be skilled in critical thinking and analysis;

• possess effective written communication skills;

• have an understanding of social, ethical and cultural context.

A 2500 word essay 60% (due during the semester), and a 1500 word take-home exam 40% (due in the examination period).

A subject reader will be available