Description
This course provides a chronological survey of empirical evidence recovered from cultures that flourished in the Near East during both prehistorical and historical periods. Lecture topics range from the transition from Neanderthals to Homo sapiens to the formation and history of Iron Age state kindgoms such as Israel, Moab, and Edom. Students will analyze material culture against a backdrop of such themes as society, environment, economy, and religion, and will consider the different ethnic and cultural perspectives.