Winter 2026
Meeting:
MW 10:30am - 12:20pm
SLN:
17595
Section Type:
Lecture
Joint Sections:
ARCHY 350 A , MELC 596 B
GRADUATE STUDENTS SEE MELC 596B
Syllabus Description (from Canvas):
This course examines warfare in the ancient Middle East through the lens of archaeology. We'll explore different types of evidence as well as case studies from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Canaan, Syria, and beyond in order to discover how and why ancient peoples used warfare and violence. Was there human sacrifice in the ancient Middle East? Were there really massive chariot battles? Why are there so many burned cities from the Late Bronze Age?
No prerequisites. No final exam. Large assignments include battle reenactments and a final creative project!
I'm in the process of revising the syllabus. I will post it when it's ready!
Catalog Description:
Surveys the archaeological remnants of war, warfare, and empire in the ancient Near East, from the rise of earliest cities to the Roman period (circa 3000 BCE-30 CE), with a focus on the cultural consequences of violence and warfare on various ancient Near Eastern cultures. Offered: jointly with ARCHY 350.
GE Requirements Met:
Social Sciences (SSc)
Credits:
5.0
Status:
Active
Last updated:
November 6, 2025 - 6:03 pm