Course Syllabus

This course examines warfare in the ancient Middle East through the lens of archaeology. We'll explore different types of evidence as well as case studies from ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Canaan, Syria, and beyond in order to discover how and why ancient peoples used warfare and violence. Was there human sacrifice in the ancient Middle East? Were there really massive chariot battles? Why are there so many burned cities from the Late Bronze Age?

No prerequisites. No final exam. Large assignments include battle reenactments, a mock archaeological project proposal (miniature version), and a final creative project!

Syllabus draft here: 2025 SYLLABUS Archaeology of Warfare.docx