HNAK00107U 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 archaeology from the Palaeolithic to the 3^rd  millennium BCE.  Proceeding chronologically, we will discuss a wide range 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 make interpretations. Students will also be given the opportunity to develop their presentation and writing skills. The course is taught in English.

The course is assessed on the basis of a written 1-week essay. The topic will be given by a teacher. Students will give short presentations as part of this course throughout the semester (alone and in groups).