HNAK0001EU Themes and Topics in Near Eastern Archaeology 1: From the Origins of Agriculture to the Dawn of the State

This course will outline some of the key themes and debates in the prehistoric and early historical periods of the Middle East, covering the Near East and northeast Africa from the Palaeolithic to the end of the 4^th millennium BCE.  Proceeding chronologically, the course will cover a wide array of themes ranging from the demise of Neanderthals and the origins of farming, to the emergence of urbanism and the first state-level societies. The course will be taught by means of lectures, seminars and practical exercises.

Students will gain in-depth knowledge of the pre- and proto-historic archaeology and history of the Middle East and Egypt, and will critically examine the use of archaeological and historical data to interpret this record.  In the practical exercises students will be given the opportunity to work with material culture. Completion of three short practical projects is a mandatory course requirement. Students will also give a short presentation on their practical projects as part of the course during the semester. The course is assessed on the basis of a written 1-week essay. The topic will be given by the teachers. The course is taught in English.