This is a shelf course. A shelf course comprises a number of modules related to this broad area of study. Each module is a separate semester of study in this area and is offered in rotation. You can study TWO modules but you cannot study the same module twice.

Subject Area: History
This course can also be studied in the following specialisations: Archaeology

Module: “Ancient Egypt and the Near East”
This module explores the origins and evolution of civilizations in ancient Egypt and western Asia. After a brief consideration of Paleolithic precursors, we will explore the rise of complex society (and eventually literate, state-level civilisation) first in Mesopotamia and then in the Nile Valley. The bulk of the module will then focus on Egypt, with the civilisations of ancient western Asia supplying context, comparisons, and counterexamples. Themes pursued in this module may include: the rise of complex society; kingship and legitimacy; change and continuity over time; the impact of environment and geography on historical development; historiography and theories of archaeological interpretation; trade, colonization, and intercultural relationships; the origins and evolution of economic and social structures (including the practice of slavery, the status of women, the composition and role of the aristocracy, etc.); conservatism and change in Egyptian religion, art, and culture.

Module: "Rome" (Semester 2, 2011)
This module traces the rise of Rome from a small city-state to the largest power in the Mediterranean world. Explores the political, social and cultural development of Roman civilisation from 753 BCE to 565 CE. Examines how Rome as a state and people dealt with internal conflict and external adversities and eventually transformed from a pluralistic state into an autocratic empire. Rome's political history and development are treated, as well as the social and cultural life of Rome and its Empire. Focuses on the evolution of Rome, as well as its relationship with other cultures.