Course Overview
Step into the captivating world of the ancient Near East with our comprehensive online course, offering an in-depth exploration of one of history's most influential and dynamic regions, spanning from the 21st to the 6th century BCE. The great Mesopotamian cultures of Assyria and Babylon dominated what is now Iraq thousands of years ago as the world's early superpowers. You'll journey through the rise and fall of these states, uncovering their profound impact on civilization as we know it, and giving you a better understanding of the political, cultural, and social history of the Near East in this time period and an insight into the ancient mindset, contributing to your understanding of the benefits and challenges of this region of the world.
What You'll Learn
Our course delves into the intricate history, culture, and politics of these two mighty empires. By the end of the course, you will:
- Understand the Historical Context: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the broader historical and geographical setting of the Near East, setting the stage for the rise of Assyria and Babylon.
- Analyze Key Figures and Events: Learn about the powerful rulers, such as Hammurabi, Tiglath-Pileser III, Sennacherib, and Nebuchadnezzar II, and their roles in shaping the destiny of their empires.
- Explore Military Innovations and Strategies: Examine the military tactics, innovations, and campaigns that allowed these empires to dominate vast territories.
- Examine Cultural and Technological Contributions: Discover the rich cultural and technological advancements, including legal codes, architectural marvels, and literary works that have left an indelible mark on human history.
- Evaluate Economic and Social Structures: Understand the economic foundations and social hierarchies that supported the grandeur of Assyrian and Babylonian societies.
- Discuss the Decline and Legacy: Investigate the factors leading to the decline of these empires and their lasting legacies in subsequent civilizations.
Example Curriculum
Course Features
- Expert Instructor: Learn from a historian with specialized expertise in Assyrian and Babylonian history.
- Primary Source Analysis: Work with translated primary sources, including cuneiform tablets, inscriptions, and legal codes, to develop a deeper understanding of historical events and perspectives.
Why Enroll?
- Broad Applicability: Whether you are a history student, educator, or enthusiast, this course offers valuable insights that apply to various fields, from archaeology to cultural studies.
- Expertise and Passion: Our instructor is passionate about their subjects and brings years of academic and field experience to the course, ensuring an enriching learning experience.
- Community Engagement: Join a community of like-minded history enthusiasts from around the world, fostering connections and discussions that enhance your understanding of the ancient Near East.
About the Instructor
David Miano is a historian of the ancient world. He studied Ancient History at the State University of New York at Buffalo (B.A. 1999) and the University of California, San Diego (M.A. 2003; Ph.D. 2006). He has taught courses at many colleges over the last 20 years. Miano’s chief research interests are in the history of the Near East and Eastern Mediterranean in antiquity, ancient methods of time keeping, the chronology of the ancient world, the literary and intellectual history of ancient cultures, and comparative world history. He is the proprietor of the World of Antiquity YouTube channel, which has thousands of fans from around the globe.
