Course Details
Country:
South Africa
Institution:
Stellenbosch University
Course Title:
Cultures of North Africa and Western Asia
Course Number:
Ancient Cultures 114
Course Description:
In this module we read some of the oldest stories of humanity (in English translation) originally written in the oldest writing systems (e.g. cuneiform and hieroglyphs) of the world: • Epic of Gilgamesh - the world's oldest story about the Mesopotamian king's deeds and the question of the meaning of life • Egyptian short stories - describing travels and social issues • Ethiopian Kebra Negast - the story of the Queen of Sheba •
These stories are read in their context and the context described in it, is studied. Attention is given to various aspects of culture: the environment, main historical events, writing systems and languages, social and political institutions, technology and buildings, religious and moral values, visual arts and literature – all aspects which still have an influence today.
Language:
English
Approved Equivalent:
HIST L387, HNRS 122
Attachment Files:
Ancient Cultures 114.pdf
