This course is an introduction to the great discoveries of the 
ancient world, with the goal being to provide students with an 
understanding of the major contributions that archaeology has 
had to World Prehistory. Since archaeology is a subdiscipline 
of anthropology, this course will contextualize archaeological 
research and interpretation in terms of its significance to the 
broader discipline of anthropology. In this course, students 
are introduced to the most famous archaeological sites in the 
world, with themes centered on the following: evidence of early 
humans, first cities, death and burial, art and architecture, 
ritual and religion, warfare, sacrifice and conflict, and great 
inventions. Specific attention will be paid to the history of 
archaeological research and how it shapes our interpretations 
and conceptions of the past. This course will also address 
archaeology’s role within the broader field of anthropology and 
how archaeological research furthers the goals of anthropology.

Introduction – what is archaeology, what is its role within 
anthropology, and how does archaeological research further the 
goals of anthropology?
History of archaeological research; how does it shape our 
interpretations and conceptions of the past?
The following areas will be explored for two weeks each:  
Africa, Southwest Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, Eastern North 
America, Western North America, Mexico and Central America, 
South America, Oceania.
In each geographic area, discussion will center on:
Evidence of early humans 
First cities
Death and burial
Art and architecture
Ritual and religion
Warfare
Sacrifice and conflict
Great inventions
Future of Archaeology