Description
This course offers a survey of world history from the origins of civilization to the birth of Jesus Christ, with a focus on the ancient Mediterranean world. Students will be introduced to the major cultural and religious traditions of Mesopotamia, Egypt, Persia, Israel, Greece, and Rome, and the role each played in the shaping of world civilization. Other world civilizations will be surveyed and will help serve as points of reference in the examination of the Mediterranean civilizations. Students will analyze primary sources and read specialized academic literature relating to each of these civilizations and, in the process, learn how to read sources critically, evaluate authors’ arguments, and develop their own claims based on concrete evidence. The course is aimed at providing a solid foundation of knowledge on the ancient world, as well as to develop the thinking, research, and writing skills necessary to succeed and excel in upper-level courses.