In this course, we will explore beliefs about death and the afterlife from the ancient Middle East. We will have three units, each focusing on a different geographical area: Egypt, Syria & Canaan, and Mesopotamia. We will look at myths, burial inscriptions, and burial practices from each region, trying to piece together what the ancient peoples of these areas believed about death. There are no prerequisites for this course. Can be taken for A&H or SSc credit.
Assignments include: guided reading questions, fun in-class activities, two unit stories, and a final project in which you become an ancient tomb salesperson and try to convince us to be buried in your cemetery!
SYLLABUS NE 309 Death and the Afterlife-2.docx
Version 3/27/23
All READINGS are in Canvas under MODULES.