Ancient World IDS1200-01 . An introduction to the cross-cultural study of the development of complex societies, including the rise of the Near Eastern and Mycenaean Greek states. The course critically evaluates the concept of civilization by comparing and contrasting developments in these two cultural areas. They all disagree in deeply philosophical ways about the nature of the fix we are in. A careful examination of how these ancient civilizations dealt with social and political change through their philosophy and religion.
Enrollment is limited to freshmen and transfers.
The Gods of Ancient Epic Instructor Michael Gleason. In addition to grand questions of fate, mortality, and justice, we also consider conventions of literary form, including the elements of epic, tradition and innovation, prose vs. poetry, anonymity vs. fame. Enrollment is limited to freshmen and transfers. A cross-cultural study of Greece and India, focusing on the Greek and Sanskrit drama. Students will study a number of dramas within their cultural context, view a number of live and recorded theatrical performances, and produce their own scenes.