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Art and Culture, 2005.
An analysis of a Sumerian sculpture known as 'Standing Man'.
690 words (approx. 2.8 pages), 4 sources, APA, £ 12.95
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Abstract
An analysis of a Sumerian sculpture known as 'Standing Man'is provided in essay format that discusses how the sculpture reflects various values, ideas and beliefs held by this ancient culture. The paper explores the place of this god in Sumerian culture.
From the Paper
The artifact from Tell Asmar known as Standing Man is typical of many sculptures from this ancient Middle East civilization...
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Bathhouses in Ancient Rome, 2006.
A comprehensive history of the baths in the Roman Empire.
2,692 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 8 sources, MLA, £ 44.95
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Abstract
The paper begins with an introduction then moves on to discussing the bathhouses of Pompeii, the Frigidarium, Caldarium and Tepidarium and their significance. Then the paper moves into the subject of the public baths and the associated extravagance, excess and theft. The paper also includes a discussion of Bath, England and concludes with the effects that Christianity had on the baths and the effects of the fall of Rome.
From the Paper
""The gong that announced the opening of the public baths each day was a sweeter sound, than the voices of the philosophers in their school" (Roman Baths, par. 2). This was written by Cicero to describe just how important the baths were to the ancient Roman people. The Ancient Roman Empire was extremely vast; at its peak the Empire controlled much of Europe, along with Asia Minor and Northern Africa. They were extremely innovative people who built many structures, as well as infrastructure, some not surpassed until the mid twentieth century. Public toilets were installed to help keep the empire clean and sanitary while sewage systems were constructed to carry waste and water away from the cities (public health par. 4). Living in relative comfort, ease, and cleanliness was important to the citizens of Rome consequently; the Romans built a large system of public health works. The Romans had no concept of germs but they still tried their best to keep themselves clean. The Romans were also practical people and believed that the prevention of disease was just as, if not more important than, the cure of disease itself, an example of this are the swamplands in Rome (public health par. 1). The Romans found that environment plays an important role in health, when they observed that people who live nearer to swamps and marshes contract disease more often then those who live in grasslands or cities (public health par. 2). A result of this would be the draining of many swamps and the subsequent building of temples to the Gods in close proximity to the swamps in order to appease the Gods (public health par.3). The great public bathhouses of the Roman Empire were important social structures as well as a place to keep disease at bay."
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Stable Isotopes in Archaeology, 2003.
A look at the reconstruction of diet through the chemical analysis of human remains.
2,342 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 16 sources, MLA, £ 40.95
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Abstract
This work examines the valuable role that stable isotope analysis plays in the reconstruction of past diets. The methods used to isolate and subsequently analyse stable isotopes obtained from skeletonized remains is explored. An in-depth discussion of carbon and nitrogen demonstrates their usefulness in distinguishing individuals who had a diet high in either plants, land-based animals, or marine food. To further illustrate the benefit of isotopic analysis, a case study regarding the adoption of maize in South and North America is discussed.
From the Paper
"Due to its use in radiocarbon dating, methods of isolating collagen had already been developed before its importance in stable isotope studies was realized (Katzenberg, 2000). There are three common techniques employed in the extraction of collagen from bone. The first method is best utilized on fresh and well-preserved archaeological bone. Initial preparation of the material involves the sample being ground and then soaked in hydrochloric acid (HCl). At this stage, the sample is composed primarily of bone organics and soil contaminants and must be placed in sodium hydroxide (NaOH) (Schwarcz & Schoeninger, 1991). Unfortunately, some collagen is lost when soaked in NaOH but this process is necessary as it has been demonstrated that contaminants may skew 13C values (Katzenberg, 2000). "
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Uluru and the Symbolic Construction of Space, 2004.
An analysis of the symbolic construction of space in and around the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park.
1,774 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, £ 31.95
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Abstract
This paper considers the symbolic construction of space and the way space is utilised within and around the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. Uluru is a point and the physical interface where Western and indigenous cultures interact. It looks at how the Uluru provides a unique insight into differences between contemporary society and the mores of an older culture. The paper includes graphics.
Outline
People About the Rock
Arid Architecture and Design
Absence of Monuments
Fashions of Fire
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The sheer size and bulk of Uluru with hundreds of nooks and crannies provides shelter, resources and inspiration to local Indigenous people for thousands of years. The numerous panels of parietal art adorning both living areas and ritual places around Uluru evidence this strong connection. The association of rock art and oral histories make Uluru 'highly identifiable' with a particular group (Burke 1999), the Anangu who are the traditional owners. Anangu creation stories and symbolic art on its surface bears testimony to the central place Uluru plays in Tjukurpa or the law of Traditional Owners."
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Teaching Archaeology, 2004.
An overview of curriculum and resources for teaching archaeology in secondary education.
8,374 words (approx. 33.5 pages), 18 sources, MLA, £ 99.95
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Abstract
This paper has two purposes, the first provides a collection of otherwise scattered archaeological resource material for secondary education providers and secondly, it considers wider issues inherent in the New South Wales history curricula. The first section of this paper contains archaeological resources for secondary education and includes material from North America, United Kingdom and Australia. While the survey is not definitive, it is designed to highlight current trends in printed matter, visual media and the internet as rapidly evolving resource theatres.
Secondly, the paper provides an overview of the relevant stages and structure of history as presented to Australian secondary students. Description, explanation and illustration of the 'continuum of learning' will assist those uninitiated in educational jargon, and hopefully provide an appreciation of the overall course content. Finally, the paper reviews archaeology as taught in Australian secondary schools.
Outline
Preface
Part 1 NSW Curriculum
1. Introduction
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Stages 1-3
1.2 Stages 4-5
1.3 Stage 6
1.4 Board of Studies Requirements
2. Ancient History Stage 6
2.1 Stage 6 History Course Structure
2.2 Stage 6 History Extension Course Structure
3. Review
3.1 Introduction
3.2 History Syllabus
3.3 Assessment and Examination
3.4 Teaching Archaeology
3.5 History and Archaeology
3.6 Recommendations
Part 2 Resources
1. North America
1.1 Print Resources
1.2 Internet Resources
1.3 CD-ROM
2. United Kingdom
2.1 Print resources
2.2 Internet Resources
2.3 CD-ROM
3. Australia
3.1 Print Resources
3.2 Internet Resources
3.3 CD-ROM
3.4 Video
3.5 HSC - Listed Texts
4. References
From the Paper
"For those considering a teaching career, and possessing an archaeological background or skills, a great deal of scope exists within the syllabus for the inclusion of archaeology. A career in teaching HSIE will require a three years bachelor degree plus either a Diploma of Education (Secondary), or a four year Bachelor of Education, or a four/five year combined degree, such as Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Teaching (Secondary). Strictly speaking, archaeology is not included in the range of subjects taught in HSIE as listed by the NSW Teachers Association (2003). However, teachers are, 'encouraged to use their special interests and talents to contribute to a wide range of school activities'. Nevertheless, and whilst the course bears the title, Ancient History, a significant body of relevant information comes directly from an archaeological approach, and the archaeological record. "
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Zoo-Archaeology and Faunal Analysis, 2006.
This paper analyzes how interaction and traces of interactions between humans and animals can aid archaeologists in studying human behavior throughout history.
1,557 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 28.95
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Abstract
This paper defines zoo-archaeology and faunal analysis as the scientific study of animal remains from archaeological sites. This paper presents three case studies which illustrate the practical use of animal remains in aiding archaeologists to understand the past. The writer of this paper proves that it is possible via faunal analysis to establish such findings as diet, social status, religion and trade. The writer contends and explains how the study of animal remains is an effective and productive method of discovering more about the interaction between people and animals throughout history. This paper also contains an illustrative graph relevant to this particular topic.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Definition and Background
Case Studies
Conclusion
References Cited
From the Paper
"Hierakonpolis is a collection of sites dating from the Palaeolithic period through to the Roman period with the HK-6 site being a cemetery. It is the HK-6 site Warman investigates with some interesting finds.
The first point Warman makes regarding HK-6 is it appears animal bones have been deliberately preserved and buried at the site alongside human remains. One such specimen found at HK-6 is of a Bos or cow. Information obtained from the remains is of significance when related to past activities of people at HK-6. Warman states it is the manner in which the remains are preserved and buried that is of special interest in relation to the religious significance past people placed on the site."
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Cycladic Religion and Marble Figures, 2005.
Attempts to penetrate the mystery of marble figures from the Cyclades and their relation to the religious beliefs of those ancient people.
3,125 words (approx. 12.5 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 50.95
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Abstract
This essay surveys the literature for opinions on the purpose of the mysterious and appealing marble figures of the Bronze Age in the Aegean islands of the Cyclades. Since the sculptors left no writing, scholars are left to speculate based on evidence from nearby cultures. Arguments from many scholars are compared to try to find the best solutions to the problem. The paper includes photographs of the figures.
From the Paper
"Van Schaik points to the fact that too few of the figures were found outside of burial contexts for the figures to be a assigned to a cult of the Mother Goddess like the one in Anatolia. However, as stated earlier, the similarity in form of the Cycladic figures to those of Anatolia cannot be discounted, whether or not one believes that they serve the same purpose".
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Urbanization in Mesopotamia, 2005.
This paper discusses a program of urbanization in Mesopotamia, which was implemented to ensure the stability and security of the empire.
2,825 words (approx. 11.3 pages), 11 sources, APA, £ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that urbanization, the arrangement of the design of the private and public buildings of a city and that of the intra-city arteries of communication and fortifications, reflects the needs and aspirations of the community within the existing frame of the ecological and technological areas of the period. The author points out that during the last phase of the Assyrian empire, beginning with the reign of Ashur-Dan II (934-912 BC) and lasting until almost 600 BC, when the Assyrian empire dominated most of Mesopotamia and parts of Palestine, Egypt, Media and Anatolia, the Assyrian kings radically transformed the cultural, political and geographical landscape of Upper Mesopotamia by the implementation of the processes of urbanization. The paper stresses that the Chaldean tribal groups, a loosely connected with prominent chieftains opposing urbanization, shifted allegiance according to the distribution of military strength, refused to pay taxes or to render services to the government, waylaid caravans and to attack and plunder settlements and small cities.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Program of Urbanization
Administrative Restructuring
Capitals
Economic Foundation
Southern Societies
Uruk and Ur
Anti-Urban Bias
Citizenship
Conclusion
From the Paper
"In these Mesopotamian cities, there grew a concept of citizenship that was the result of the driving force of the urbanization process. The old and important cities enjoyed certain privileges and exemptions with respect to the king and his power. They had a legal status that differentiated in essential points from that of any other community, In Babylonia, these cities were Nippur, Babylon, and Sippar, in Assria, the old capital Asur, and later, Harran in Upper Mesopotamia. In principle, the inhabitants of these free cities claimed freedom from work, freedom from military service, as well as a tax exemption. These privileges were neither new nor exception, Certain persons with restructed libery, in the Sumerian empire of Ur were said to be exempted from carrying earth, and inhabitants of Nippur were exempted from military service and paying tribute in silver and gold. This shows that the resistance against the claims of a central authority for services of its subjects is characteristics not only of a non urbanized group, but also one of the aspirations of city-dwellers."
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Theories about "Atlantis", 2001.
This paper discusses various theories surrounding the myth of Atlantis written by the Greek scholar Plato in 400 B.C., even today captivating the minds of archaeologists and philosophers.
2,160 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 10 sources, MLA, £ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the most "extreme" theories say that either Atlantis was no more than a figment of Plato's vast imagination or that the "lost city" was real in every respect. The author points out that the lost city has been rumored to have existed in the Caribbean Sea, in the Mediterranean Sea, in the Atlantic Ocean, in the Aegean Sea and even in the Arctic Ocean. The paper supports another theory, which seems more than likely, states that Plato's epic story was little more than an exaggeration of an historic event: the sinking of Thera, a small island in the Aegean Sea, after a series of massive earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.
From the Paper
"Thera is again likened to Atlantis through its technological level, which was supposedly much more advanced than other civilizations of the era. According to Plato's Critias (which was actually named after his grandfather), Atlantis was "set apart from other [civilizations] with their countless new contrivances and concepts." This technological power made Atlantis a ruling class, and closely resembles the Minoan culture. The Minoans were a supposedly advanced people who were some of the first to make many uses of the wheel and keystone concepts."
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Human Civilization, 2005.
A discussion of three important developments for human civilization.
778 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 1 source, MLA, £ 15.95
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Abstract
Many developments throughout history have had a great impact on human civilization. Some developments have had a positive effect and some have had negative effects. This essay discusses three developments or revolutions that have positively affected the history of humans: The agriculture revolution, scientific evolution and the evolution of writing. It explains how all have significantly affected human civilization and changed the way humans ate, thought, communicated and lived.
From the Paper
"The Agriculture Revolution, which took place during the Neolithic Age, is a positive development throughout history because it allowed humans to settle down and live a sedentary life. Before agriculture, humans relied on hunting and gathering, or raising animals for their food. Both created a nomadic lifestyle because hunters migrated with the animals and herders would have to move with their animals when grazing was exhausted (Adler 9). The shift to sedentary life was slow but ultimately led to a larger population and human civilization. This change created villages and towns where people lived and worked. The villages and towns, in turn, created culture. These villages allowed specialization of other occupations because it was not necessary for every individual to farm. The textbook says, "Efforts were more productive for the entire community if people specialized" (Adler 9). This revolution also created the idea of privately owned property and systematized regulation. Farmers wanted "permanent possession" of their land and systematized regulation enforced these rights (Adler 9). Another positive effect from the Agriculture Revolution was the growth of public role for women. These dramatic changes in human life were very gradual. Even though it took 200 to 400 years to complete this development, the Agriculture Revolution forever changed human life."
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Australopithecines: The Origins of Man, 2005.
This paper identifies the Australopithecines as hominids and explores the relationship between this species and modern man.
1,100 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 10 sources, MLA, £ 21.95
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Abstract
The Australopithecines constitutes a group of extinct hominids that are closely related to humans. The Australopithecines were believed to be bi-pedal organisms, making them an integral link in the chain of evolution leading to modern man. This essay explores the evolution from ancient primates, to bi-pedal australopithicenes, to modern man. It includes several cited sources.
From the Paper
"The word "hominid" refers to "any of a family (Hominidae) of erect bipedal primate mammals comprising recent humans together with extinct ancestral and related forms" (Merriam Webster). Hominids are included in the super-family of apes, the Hominoidea, in which the members are referred to as hominoids. Though the fossil record of hominids is currently fragmented and incomplete, there is enough material present to provide a healthy sketch of the evolutionary history of homo sapiens. Inasmuch as the Australopithecines were "bipedal primate mammals," they can be classified as ancient hominids (Merriam Webster). Many changes in the physical environment contributed to the evolution of these early humans."
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Life After Death in Ancient Egypt, 2004.
The ancient Egyptian belief of life after death in detail and its funerary ceremonies to achieve happiness and harmony in the afterlife.
2,240 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper explains how Ancient Egyptians believed that life was but a passageway to the rest of their lives, only elsewhere. Throughout their lives they prepared for this event. It looks at how they believed that each individual had seven components. It discusses how the ancient Egyptians would protect these components by preserving the body and giving it a proper funerary. These funeraries would include mummification and other funerary rituals described in the paper - everything would make a difference in the afterlife, from the care and dress of the body to the materials within the tomb.
From the Paper
"In ancient Egypt, death was the gateway to immortality. Egyptians never saw death as devastating, for it was merely "an interruption to life in which afterwards would continue 'elsewhere' " (Hamilton-Paterson and Andrews 16). It was necessary, however, to prepare for death, for the deceased would require necessities for the afterlife. Egyptian beliefs on the afterlife required preparation through a funerary process which culminated in a life after death in the tombs (16-17)."
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The Silk Road, 2005.
An in-depth look into the history and geography of this major link between East and West.
5,159 words (approx. 20.6 pages), 12 sources, MLA, £ 71.95
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Abstract
The Silk Road, the ancient 4,000 mile caravan route, was used primarily for trade and linked East to West, from China to Rome. This paper covers the nearly 2000 years of history of the Silk Road, which served the world's four main civilizations from approximately 500 B.C. to 1500 A.D. as the major highway for transporting material goods and knowledge between Europe (till Rome), the Near East, India, and China.
Paper Outline:
The Geographical Setting
The Silk Road
Travel of Ideas and Techniques
Music of the Silk Road
Bibliography
From the Paper
"The Silk Road - a network of trade routes that connected East Asia to the Mediterranean--was the main conduit for the spread and exchange of goods, ideas, religions, and cultural elements among the many peoples of Eurasia. Along it, Buddhism spread from India to China, Korea, and Japan; Islam from the Middle East to the subcontinent and Southeast Asia; Christianity--particularly Nestorian Christianity--to the Far East. Not only silk and spices but paper, printing processes, gunpowder, the magnetic compass, and prized ceramics and laquerware flowed westward, while glassware and gold and silver metalwork flowed eastward. Developments in mathematics and the sciences--as well as in art and music--coursed back and forth, building upon each other. The legacy of the exchanges enacted along the Silk Road from about 500 B.C. until A.D. 1500 permeates cultures in both East and West to this day."
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The "Elgin Marbles": Greek Property in British Museums, 2003.
An examination of the "Elgin Marbles", ancient Parthenon figures that were claimed by British archaeologists in the 18th century during Greek civil strife, and the debate over whether or not they should be returned to Greece.
3,175 words (approx. 12.7 pages), 7 sources, MLA, £ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the controversy that exists over the "Elgin Marbles", which were originally part of the Greek Parthenon's frieze, that were taken by Lord Elgin of England in the late 18th century. The paper takes the position that the statues and other artifacts which currently are housed in English museums, are the rightful property of the Greek people and should be returned to Greece. The paper is divided into several sections. The first gives a history of the Elgin Marbles and how they came into possession of the English in the first place. A brief history of the Parthenon is also given in this section, with a detailed examination of the architecture and the ancient politics that surrounded its construction. The paper then spans the history of the Parthenon up until the 18th century, including the building losing its roof and several architectural designs due to the Ottoman Turks using it as an armory during their control of Greece. The paper discusses how British archaeologists claimed the pieces in the 1800s, fearful that the Greeks could not maintain such classical pieces of work. The paper ends with a section discussing the latest improvements that are underway in Greece to house the "Elgin Marbles" if an international agreement can be reached that will send the pieces of the Parthenon back to Athens. The concept of Greek pride and honor in their ancient ancestry is discussed and how originally, when Greece was unable to maintain such pieces, the idea to keep them in England was the correct decision to be made.
From the Paper
"The mere thought of The Parthenon evokes an image of dignity and pride for not only the current Greek citizens who look upon their ancient ancestors with honor, but for the entirety of Western civilization who view The Parthenon as a representation of the greatness that can be achieved by Western culture. Using this Western concept of pride as a basis, it is clear to see why the British government has its roots in claiming that the treasures of the Parthenon would be better served in a more upscale environment such as The British Museum rather then an unfinished Acropolis museum in Athens. Nevertheless, the removal of The Parthenon artifacts, which are known as The Elgin Marbles since the works of art were "purchased" by the English noble Lord Thomas Bruce of Elgin in 1801, was in essence an infraction upon the Greek populace's right to their ancestors' culture. In large part due to the importance of The Parthenon and the culture that it represents to Greece, the rightful place of the Elgin Marbles is in Athens where the pieces of architecture were always intended to remain when they were completed. "
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