This course introduces students to the political, social, and cultural history of the Middle East, spanning from the emergence of written cultures in Mesopotamia and Egypt (c. 3200 BCE) to the early twenty-first century CE. The course lectures, readings,and visuals are geared toward providing students with a grounding in the historical avenues of demographic movement and cultural exchange, formations of power and authority, innovations in science and technology, and interactions with global events that have distinguished the diverse experiences and heritages of people who live or have lived in the lands between the Nile and Oxus Rivers, a region generally referred to as the "Middle East." Through this overview, students will gain an understanding of the significant impact that this region has had on the course of world events and cultural development from the Bronze Age to the present day.

Course Requirements:

Throughout the semester there will be two quizzes, a mid-term, and a cumulative final exam. Over the course of the term students will also compile an integrative and chronologically organized chart including key terms from the lectures.

Class Format:

Each week's work consists of two lecture classes and one discussion session. At each discussion session the student will submit a one-page synopsis/diary on the week's reading assignments. This exercise will help the student learn how to read critically, extract important information, and internalize the material covered, ultimately preparing them for the examinations.