GRST 219 - The First Cities: The Art and Archaeology of the Ancient Near East

1 unit(s)

(Same as ART 219 and URBS 219) The art, architecture, and artifacts of the region comprising ancient Iraq, Iran, Syria, Palestine, and Turkey from 3200 BCE to the conquest of Alexander the Great in the fourth century BCE. Beginning with the rise of cities and cuneiform writing in Mesopotamia, course topics include the role of the arts in the formation of states and complex societies, cult practices, trade and military action, as well as in everyday life. How do we make sense of the past through its ruins and artifacts, especially when they are under attack (the destruction wrought by ISIS)?

Prerequisite(s): ART 105 or 106 or one unit in Greek and Roman Studies, or permission of the instructor.

Two 75-minute periods.

Not offered in 2023/24.