AKKD 5000a, Elementary Akkadian I  Eckart Frahm

Introduction to the language of ancient Babylonia and its cuneiform writing system, with exercises in reading, translation, and composition.
TTh 9am-10:15am

AKKD 5010b, Elementary Akkadian II  Staff

Introduction to the language of ancient Babylonia and its cuneiform writing system, with exercises in reading, translation, and composition.
MW 9am-10:15am

AKKD 5210a, Old Assyrian Language II  Gojko Barjamovic

Continuation of Old Assyrian dialect of the Akkadian language in the context of Northern Mesopotamia and Anatolia in the early second millennium BC. Reading of texts from a wide variety of genres, including private and state letters, legal and administrative records, loans and quittances, caravan texts, commercial records, partnership contracts, family and state law, political treaties, literature, magic, religion, and royal inscriptions. Course readings combine standard introductions and thematic and core studies in the field.
T 1:30pm-3:20pm

AKKD 5460a, Mythological and Ritual Texts from Ancient Mesopotamia  Eckart Frahm

A survey of mythological and ritual texts from ancient Mesopotamia.
Th 1:30pm-3:20pm

AKKD 5470b, Assyrian Letters  Eckart Frahm

An introduction to Assyrian letters, mostly from the Assyrian “state archives” of the first millennium B.C.E.  Prerequisite: AKKD 1100 and AKKD 1200.
W 1:30pm-3:20pm

ARBC 5000a, Elementary Modern Standard Arabic I  Staff

A two-term course for students who have no previous background in Arabic. Students learn the Arabic alphabet, basic vocabulary and expression, and basic grammatical structures and concepts, and concentrate on developing listening and speaking skills. The course aims at developing the following skills: reading to extract the gist of written Modern Standard Arabic texts; speaking with increased ease, good pronunciation, sound grammatical forms, and correct usage; writing to respond to simple daily life issues; forming and recognizing grammatically correct Modern Standard Arabic.
HTBA

ARBC 5010b, Elementary Modern Standard Arabic II  Staff

A two-term course for students who have no previous background in Arabic. Students learn the Arabic alphabet, basic vocabulary and expression, and basic grammatical structures and concepts, and concentrate on developing listening and speaking skills. The course aims at developing the following skills: reading to extract the gist of written Modern Standard Arabic texts; speaking with increased ease, good pronunciation, sound grammatical forms, and correct usage; writing to respond to simple daily life issues; forming and recognizing grammatically correct Modern Standard Arabic.
HTBA

ARBC 5020a, Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic I  Muhammad Aziz

A two-term course for students with previous background in Arabic. It is designed to improve proficiency in aural and written comprehension as well as in speaking and writing skills. The course aims to develop the following skills: reading to extract the gist as well as key details of written Modern Standard Arabic texts on a variety of academic, social, cultural, economic, and political topics; speaking with greater fluency and enhanced engagement in conversations on a variety of topics; mastering writing, easily forming and recognizing grammatically correct Arabic sentences. Prerequisite: ARBC 5010 or successful completion of a placement test.
HTBA

ARBC 5030b, Intermediate Modern Standard Arabic II  Muhammad Aziz

A two-term course for students with previous background in Arabic. It is designed to improve proficiency in aural and written comprehension as well as in speaking and writing skills. The course aims to develop the following skills: reading to extract the gist as well as key details of written Modern Standard Arabic texts on a variety of academic, social, cultural, economic, and political topics; speaking with greater fluency and enhanced engagement in conversations on a variety of topics; mastering writing, easily forming and recognizing grammatically correct Arabic sentences. Prerequisite: ARBC 5010 or successful completion of a placement test.
MTWThF 9:25am-10:15am

ARBC 5040a, Advanced Modern Standard Arabic I  Jonas Elbousty

Focus on improving the listening, writing, and speaking skills of students who already have a substantial background in the study of modern standard Arabic. Prerequisite: ARBC 5030 or permission of the instructor.
MWF 3:30pm-4:20pm

ARBC 5050b, Advanced Modern Standard Arabic II  Jonas Elbousty

Focus on improving the listening, writing, and speaking skills of students who already have a substantial background in the study of modern standard Arabic. Prerequisite: ARBC 5030 or permission of the instructor.
MWF 2:30pm-3:20pm

ARBC 5090a, Beginning Classical Arabic I  Staff

Introduction to classical Arabic, with emphasis on grammar to improve analytical reading skills. Readings include Qur’anic passages, literary material in both poetry and prose, biographical entries, and religious texts. Prerequisite: ARBC 5010 or permission of the instructor. May be taken concurrently with ARBC 5020 or ARBC 5040.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

ARBC 5100b, Beginning Classical Arabic II  Staff

Introduction to classical Arabic, with emphasis on analytical reading skills, grammar, and prose composition. Readings from the Qur’an, Islamic theology, and literature and history of the Middle East, as well as Jewish and Christian religious texts in Arabic.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

ARBC 5110a, Intermediate Classical Arabic I  Staff

A course on Arabic grammar and morphology that builds on the skills acquired in ARBC 1460 or 5100, with emphasis on vocabulary, grammar, and reading skills and strategies. Readings drawn from a variety of genres, such as biography, history, hadith, and poetry. ARBC 1460 or 5100 or permission from instructor.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

ARBC 5120b, Intermediate Classical Arabic II  Staff

A continuation of Intermediate Classical Arabic grammar and morphology that builds on the skills acquired in ARBC 1560 or 5110, with emphasis on vocabulary, grammar, and reading skills and strategies. Readings drawn from a variety of genres, such as biography, history, hadith, and poetry. ARBC 1560 or 5110 or permission from instructor.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

ARBC 5200a, Egyptian Arabic  Randa Muhammed

An Egyptian Arabic dialect course.
MW 1pm-2:15pm

ARBC 5220a, Modern Standard Arabic for Heritage Learners I  Sarab Al Ani

This course is designed for students who have been exposed to Arabic—either at home or by living in an Arabic speaking country—but who have little or no formal training in the language. The main purpose of the course is to build on the language knowledge students bring to the classroom to improve their skills and performance in the three modes of communication (interpersonal, presentational, and interpretive) to fulfill various needs. Particular attention is paid to building, controlling, and mastering language structures. Effective study strategies are used in this course to strengthen writing skills in MSA. Various assignments and tasks are designed to improve the learner's understanding of several issues related to culture in various Arabic speaking countries. Prerequisite: Students must take the placement test or have permission of the instructor.
MW 11:35am-12:50pm

ARBC 5230a, Arabic Narrative Prose  Muhammad Aziz

Close reading of some of Naguib Mahfouz’s novels. Attention to idiomatic expressions, structural patterns, literary analysis, and discussions. Students write a brief report on their weekly reading and discuss the main ideas of the assigned reading. Short midterm paper relevant to Mahfouz (to be discussed with the instructor) and a final paper. Prerequisite: ARBC 5030 or permission of the instructor.
MW 1pm-2:15pm

ARBC 5300b, Arabic Seminar: Early Adab  Kevin van Bladel

Study and interpretation of classical Arabic texts for advanced students. Prerequisite: ARBC 5100 or permission of the instructor.
W 3:30pm-5:20pm

ARBC 5320b, Modern Standard Arabic for Heritage Learners II  Sarab Al Ani

Continuation of ARBC 1220, MSA for Heritage Learners I. This course is designed for students who have been exposed to Arabic—either at home or by living in an Arabic-speaking country —but who have little or no formal training in the language. The main purpose of the course is to build on the language knowledge students bring to the classroom to improve their skills and performance in the three modes of communication (Interpersonal, Presentational, and Interpretive) in MSA to fulfill various needs. Particular attention is paid to building, controlling, and mastering language structures. Effective study strategies are used in this course to strengthen writing skills. Various assignments and tasks are designed to improve the learner's understanding of several issues related to culture in various Arabic speaking countries. Prerequisite: ARBC 1220, successful completion of placement test, or instructor permission.
MW 11:35am-12:50pm

ARBC 5610a, Graduate Arabic Seminar: Medieval Poetry  Shawkat Toorawa

Study and interpretation of classical Arabic texts for graduate students. This is a graduate seminar that will adjust its subtitle according to the materials, texts, and subjects covered.
M 1:30pm-3:20pm

ARBC 5980b, Tracing the Image of the Arab "Other"  Jonas Elbousty

This course places the modern Arabic novel in conversation with the West in an effort to uncover both dominant narratives regarding Arab identity as well as counter narratives that present a challenge to these dominant narratives. We study the tradition of modern Arabic literature, looking specifically to the ways in which the image of the “other” is presented in Arabic narratives as well as the ways in which the image of the Arab is constructed through the others’ literature. Prerequisite: ARBC 1510.
MW 6pm-7:15pm

EGYP 5000a, Introduction to Classical Hieroglyphic Egyptian I  Staff

First part of a two-term introduction to the language of ancient pharaonic Egypt (Middle Egyptian) and its hieroglyphic writing system, with short historical, literary, and religious texts. Grammatical analysis with exercises in reading, translation, and composition.
MW 9am-10:15am

EGYP 5010b, Introduction to Classical Hieroglyphic Egyptian II  John Darnell

A two-term introduction to the language of ancient pharaonic Egypt (Middle Egyptian) and its hieroglyphic writing system, with short historical, literary, and religious texts. Grammatical analysis with exercises in reading, translation, and composition. EGYP 1100.
TTh 9am-10:15am

EGYP 5100a, Elementary Biblical Coptic I  Melania Linderman

The native Egyptian language in the Roman and Byzantine periods. Thorough grounding in grammar and vocabulary of the Sahidic dialect as a basis for reading biblical, monastic, and Gnostic texts. Credit only on completion of EGYP 520.
MW 9am-10:15am

EGYP 5200b, Elementary Biblical Coptic II  David Baldi

Continuation of EGYP 510. Prerequisite: EGYP 5100.
MW 9am-10:15am

EGYP 5330a, Intermediate Egyptian I: Literary Texts  John Darnell

Close reading of Middle Egyptian literary texts; introduction to the hieratic (cursive) Egyptian script. Readings include the Middle Kingdom stories of “Sinuhe” and the “Eloquent Peasant” and excerpts from wisdom literature. Prerequisite: EGYP 5010.
MW 2:30pm-3:45pm

EGYP 5410b, Intermediate Egyptian II: Historical Texts  Staff

Close reading of Middle Egyptian historical texts in original hieroglyphic and hieratic script. Initial survey of ancient Egyptian historiography and grammatical forms peculiar to this genre of text. Prerequisite: EGYP 5010.
MW 2:30pm-3:45pm

EGYP 5500b, Introduction to Demotic  John Darnell

Introduction to the script and grammar of demotic, including readings of the Instruction of Onkhsheshonqy and excerpts from the bilingual decrees.
MW 4pm-5:15pm

EGYP 5780a, The Egyptian Netherworld Books  John Darnell

Study of the Underworld texts from the royal tombs of the New Kingdom. Readings from the Amduat, the Book of Gates, the Book of Caverns, the Book of the Creation of the Solar Disk, the Book of the Day and the Night, the cryptographic Books of the Solar-Osirian Unity, the Book of the Heavenly Cow, and the Book of Nut. Discussions of the significance of these texts for understanding Egyptian religion and the possible contributions of these compositions to the Hermetica and Christian Gnosticism. Prerequisites: EGYP 1100 and EGYP 1200 or equivalents.
MW 4pm-5:15pm

HEBR 5000a, Elementary Modern Hebrew I  Dina Roginsky

A two-term introduction to the language of contemporary Israel, both spoken and written. Fundamentals of grammar; extensive practice in speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension under the guidance of a native speaker. No previous knowledge required. Successful completion of the fall term required to enroll in the spring term.
HTBA

HEBR 5010b, Elementary Modern Hebrew II  Orit Yeret

A two-term introduction to the language of contemporary Israel, both spoken and written. Fundamentals of grammar; extensive practice in speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension under the guidance of a native speaker. No previous knowledge required. Successful completion of the fall term required to enroll in the spring term.
HTBA

HEBR 5020a, Intermediate Modern Hebrew I  Orit Yeret

A two-term review and continuation of grammatical study leading to a deeper comprehension of style and usage. Focus on selected readings, writing, comprehension, and speaking skills. Prerequisite: HEBR 5010 or equivalent.
HTBA

HEBR 5030b, Intermediate Modern Hebrew II  Netta Sovinsky

A two-term review and continuation of grammatical study leading to a deeper comprehension of style and usage. Focus on selected readings, writing, comprehension, and speaking skills. Prerequisite: HEBR 5020 or equivalent.
MTWThF 10:30am-11:20am

HEBR 5100a, Conversational Hebrew: Israeli Media  Shiri Goren

An advanced Hebrew course for students interested in practicing and enhancing conversational skills. The course aims to improve the four language skills while stressing listening comprehension and various forms of discussions including practical situations, online interactions, and content analysis. Prerequisite: HEBR 5020 or permission of the instructor.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

HEBR 5110a, Elementary Biblical Hebrew I  Dina Roginsky

A two-term introduction to Biblical Hebrew. Intensive instruction in grammar and vocabulary, supplemented by readings from the Bible. No prior knowledge of Hebrew required.
TTh 2:30pm-3:45pm

HEBR 5120b, Elementary Biblical Hebrew II  Eric Reymond

A two-term review and continuation of instruction in grammar and vocabulary, supplemented by readings from the Bible. Prerequisite: HEBR 5100 or equivalent.
MWF 8:20am-9:10am

HEBR 5130a, Intermediate Biblical Hebrew I  Eric Reymond

A two-term review and continuation of instruction in grammar and vocabulary, supplemented by readings from the Bible. Prerequisite: HEBR 5100 or equivalent.
TTh 9am-10:15am

HEBR 5630b / JDST 8295b, From Biblical to Modern Hebrew  Dina Roginsky

This course aims to support students who have reading knowledge of Biblical Hebrew but cannot read or converse in Modern Hebrew. The course concentrates on reading and aims at enabling students to use Modern Hebrew for research purposes. The texts chosen are tailored to students’ particular areas of interest. Prerequisite: two years of Biblical or Modern Hebrew studies, or permission of the instructor. Conducted in English.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

HEBR 5780b / JDST 8274b, Languages in Dialogue: Hebrew and Arabic  Dina Roginsky

Hebrew and Arabic are closely related as sister Semitic languages. They have a great degree of grammatical, morphological, and lexical similarity. Historically, Arabic and Hebrew have been in cultural contact in various places and in different aspects. This advanced Hebrew language class explores linguistic similarities between the two languages as well as cultural comparisons of the communities, built on mutual respect. Students benefit from a section in which they gain a basic exposure to Arabic, based on its linguistic similarity to Hebrew. Conducted in Hebrew. Prerequisite: HEBR 5030, or placement test, or permission of the instructor.
TTh 2:30pm-3:45pm

MESO 5040a, History of Mesopotamia: First Millennium  Benjamin Foster

Readings and discussion of issues and evidence for the first millennium of Mesopotamian history.
M 9:25am-11:15am

MESO 5060a, Selected Mesopotamian Texts: Sumerian  Benjamin Foster

Survey of selected Mesopotamian texts in Sumerian.
W 9:25am-11:15am

MESO 5340b, Sumerian Literature  Benjamin Foster

Sumerian Literature.
M 1:30pm-3:20pm

NELC 5170a, Beginnings of Business: A History of Early Trade  Gojko Barjamovic

When did trade begin? When did business go global? How has the organization of commerce changed through time? What are our fundamental financial instruments and how and in what order where they developed? Are there fundamental rules behind the way in which humans conduct business? What roles have states and institutions historically played in facilitating or restricting trade? What sources and approaches are available to study trade in pre-modern times? Can business innovations from the past help us think about business in the present? To explore all these questions, this course draws upon data and case studies drawn broadly from the ancient world but with focus on evidence from ancient Mesopotamia. With the benefit of a giant canvas of history we paint a detailed picture of how business developed through time. We look at examples where business was strictly regulated by state-controlled institutions as well as examples entrepreneurs would have to rely on informal enforcement mechanisms, such as kin-relationships and reputation in repeated interactions. We dive into the effects of shock on individuals and systems, from production shortages to pandemics. And we ask what happens when systems collapse or value becomes immeasurable (as people have claimed for the 2008 crash). We study family-controlled business groups as an alternative to integrated and professionally managed corporations. And we observe how entrepreneurs adapted to face the financial challenges of states and dawning globalization. Beginnings of Business immerses students in the history of trade and draws on guests from widely different fields and disciplines to showcase the variety of approaches with which scholars address questions of business history. Meetings are built around lectures but emphasize participation and discussion. We run business simulations and make visits to institutions and collections to provide as broad and engaging a learning experience for students as possible about the practice of trade since the dawn of history.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

NELC 5250b, Ancient Mesopotamia: The First Half of History  Eckart Frahm

An introduction to the history and culture of the peoples and societies of ancient Iraq, from 3500 BCE to 75 CE, with a focus on Sumer, Babylonia, and Assyria. Students explore the origins of core features of Mesopotamian civilization, many still with us, from writing, literature, law, science, and organized religion to urbanism, long-distance trade, and empire. In addition to secondary sources, readings (all in English) include the Epic of Gilgamesh, the Babylonian Epic of Creation, liver omens from the world’s first universal library, cuneiform letters and legal documents, as well as the world’s earliest cookbooks, housed in the Yale Babylonian Collection.
MW 11:35am-12:50pm

NELC 5260b, Tiny but Mighty: Cylinder, Button, and Scarab Seals in Ancient Egypt and Beyond  Staff

Small and easily missed, seals stand as ubiquitous archaeological discoveries and museum artifacts. Through careful study, these unassuming objects have led to such important discoveries as documenting otherwise unattested kings. In this seminar we explore the evolution of shapes and uses of seals and pseudo-seals in ancient Egypt, tracing their origins as cylinder seals in the Early Dynastic period (c. 3200 BCE) to the spread of scarab amulets in the western Mediterranean (c. 900–300 BCE). Seals served different purposes in ancient Egypt, and their clay impressions (sealings) are used by modern historians and archaeologists to date sites and better understand ancient Egyptian administrative and economic practices. Despite their archaeological prevalence and historical importance, seals and sealings have not received much attention in Egyptology, and the study of glyptics in ancient Egyptian is still in its infancy. In this seminar we embark on the exploration of questions that illuminate ancient Egypt in novel ways. Some of the issues that we investigate are of broader humanistic and interdisciplinary concern, reading on topics of literacy, pre-industrial bureaucratic state, individual access to the divine, and ethnicity. Indeed, besides becoming familiar with the different typologies of seals, and how to recognize the objects to which the seals were originally attached by inspecting the impressed back of the sealings, we ask such questions as: do seals represent individuals or offices? Were figurative seals a way to include illiterate people in a town or household’s administration? Why did more women than men own stamp seals? Is there a parallel, non-official, folk tradition surviving alongside hieroglyphic writing in figurative seals throughout the millennia? Why were Egyptian seals and scarabs manufactured outside of Egypt? Why did Phoenicians bury themselves with scarab seals bearing the name of long-gone Egyptian pharaohs?
T 1:30pm-3:20pm

NELC 5280a, From Gilgamesh to Persepolis: Introduction to Near Eastern Literatures  Kathryn Slanski

This course is an introduction to Near Eastern civilization through its rich and diverse literary cultures. We read and discuss ancient works, such as the Epic of Gilgamesh, Genesis, and “The Song of Songs,” medieval works, such as A Thousand and One Nights, selections from the Qur’an, and Shah-nama: The Book of Kings, and modern works of Israeli, Turkish, and Iranian novelists and Palestianian poets. Students complement classroom studies with visits to the Yale Babylonian Collection and the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, as well as with film screenings and guest speakers. Students also learn fundamentals of Near Eastern writing systems, and consider questions of tradition, transmission, and translation. All readings are in translation.
TTh 1pm-2:15pm

NELC 5370b, Unequal: Dynamics of Power and Social Hierarchy in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia  Gojko Barjamovic

When we talk about root causes for intolerance, study the terrors of slavery, or argue the nature of imperialism, we refer to the past. Our beliefs about this past are more than just interpretations of what came before. They actively shape society’s present—as ultimate origin is tied in the mind to current purpose. The past not only gives form to, but also serves to explain, present reality. Histories of our early past in particular are treated as our own origin myth. And like all origin myths, this narrative has enormous power. Variation on its theme can be found in various forms on the shelves of every airport bookshop. It informs the debates of contemporary policymakers. It permeates popular culture. Popular books lay out narratives of the past, each in their own way, to evoke images, argue ideologies, promote diets, or stir emotions in the present. Most of these myths share a common theme of “progress” and “freedom.” It is often told as follows: early humans formed roaming bands of egalitarian hunters and gatherers. As societies grew larger, more complex, wealthy, and “civilized,” they became progressively less equal. Settlement and farming required the management of labor, notions of value, rules of ownership. Early states demanded even steeper hierarchies, and with them, the full package of leaders, administrators, division of labor, social class. Equality and freedom were traded for growth and progress. This class challenges the myth that inequality is simply hardwired into society. It does so by going back to the rise of the first states 5000 years ago in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia and studying how those states were imagined and structured as well as how they changed over time. We look at early historical examples of alternative large-scale collectives and explore historical cases that allow us to study societal structure and change on an epochal scale to ask if inequality is truly an inescapable result of complexity. We venture to transcend mythmaking and identify basic patterns of inequality that resonate across time and into current society. Using examples drawn from early human history we think about key features of our present and explore roots of identity, possession, value, freedom, and power, and how their legacy structures contemporary life.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

NELC 5380b, Imaging Ancient Worlds in Museum Collections  Klaus Wagensonner and Agnete Lassen

What is digitization of cultural heritage? What are its merits, challenges, and best practices? The course highlights the documentation and interpretation of archaeological artifacts, in particular artifacts from Western Asia. The primary goal of the course is the use of new technologies in computer graphics, including 3D imaging, to support current research in archaeology and anthropology. The course does put particular emphasis on the best practices of digitizing artifacts in collections. The prime study subjects are the artifacts housed in the Yale Babylonian Collection (https://babylonian-collection.yale.edu). For some background information on the collection see here. Students engage directly with the artifacts while practicing the various imaging techniques.
T 1:30pm-3:20pm

NELC 5400a / EALL 7530a / EMST 9600a / MDVL 9005a / RLST 9550a, Proseminar for Jobseekers in Premodern Fields  Lucas Bender

This course is intended for doctoral students (particularly studying topics in the premodern humanities) in their penultimate and final years. Over the course of the semester, students work with peers as well as faculty convener to build the skills they need to present their research to others in a clear, compelling way. Topics covered include preparing application materials, interviewing, negotiating job offers, alt-ac careers, publishing, CV building, and how to succeed in postdoctoral and junior faculty positions. Weekly sessions generally include workshop time as well as presentations by the convener and visitors. This proseminar is particularly directed toward students affiliated with Archaia and medieval studies but welcomes all those with research interests in the premodern world; if space allows, students working on modern topics can also join. The broad range of primary specialties represented provides students with experience engaging with scholars outside their field, which is increasingly essential for premodernists in the modern academic world.
T 1pm-3:20pm

NELC 5620a, Death, Memorial, and Immortality in the Hebrew Bible and Its World  Jacqueline Vayntrub

What does the Hebrew Bible have to say about human mortality, divine immortality, and the afterlife? Are these ideas more consistent with later Jewish and Christian notions of death and the afterlife, or are they closer to the views of their ancient Near Eastern neighbors? In this course we examine the development of biblical and ancient Near Eastern concepts of death and life-after-death. We look at a variety of different types of texts that touch upon these themes, such as narrative, poetry, ritual, and law in biblical and other ancient Near Eastern texts. Topics include the depiction of human mortality and divine immortality in literature; dying as a social process; the development of the notion of an afterlife and the concept of the “soul”; communication with the dead; how these texts have been received in the West; and how they have shaped inherited ideas of the immortality of the soul, human suffering, and divine justice. The aim of the course is to develop an awareness of the ancient historical and cultural context in which these texts were authored, and to deepen our understanding of modern views of mortality. Prerequisite: an introductory course in the Bible at some level is preferred.
M 1:30pm-3:20pm

NELC 5690a, Visible Language: The Origins of Writing in Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt  Klaus Wagensonner

Exploration of writing in the ancient Near East and the profound effects this new method of communication had on human society. Focus on Egypt and Mesopotamia, where advanced writing systems first developed and were used for millennia.
TTh 2:30pm-3:45pm

NELC 5810b, Critical Readings  Gojko Barjamovic

A weekly seminar for graduate students in which we read and discuss a selection of old and new monographs (and perhaps a few key articles) relevant to the field of ancient studies. Three weekly presenters give a fifteen-minute oral review of a book, which is followed by a thirty-five-minute discussion. Everyone reads a short passage from the work assigned by the presenter one week in advance. It should not exceed ten to twelve pages on average and should be exemplary of the work. Presenters focus on extracting main points from the chosen work and discuss its place within the broader framework of ancient studies. The seminar targets students in Assyriology, Classics, Egyptology, Hebrew Bible, and Religion, but others may find it interesting and relevant. For our first meeting, we all read and discuss the same book: Liverani’s Imagining Babylon, which, despite its alleged focus on the Near East, presents a concise and somewhat controversial summary of the history of ancient history. At the first meeting we also divide up the coming weeks and readings between us. The topic for each week is left intentionally broad so as to accommodate a wide selection of books. The selection of themes, on the other hand, ensures that we make it through several major topics within ancient studies, from economics and religion to art and archeology. We rehearse skills in critical reading, writing scholarly reviews, debating, and, of course, we engage with a massive amount of literature that we might not otherwise find the time to read.
Th 1:30pm-3:20pm

NELC 6350a / CPLT 6010a, The Education of Princes: Medieval Advice Literature of Rulership and Counsel  Shawkat Toorawa

In this course we read “mirrors for princes,” a type of political writing by courtiers and advisors. The genre flourished in the courts of medieval Europe and the Islamic world. We learn about the ethical and moral considerations that guided (or were meant to guide) rulers in their conduct, in the formulation of their policies, and about theories of rule and rulership. The works we read are from several cultural, religious, and political traditions, and include: Christine de Pizan, A Medieval Woman’s Mirror of Honor; Einhard, Life of Charlemagne; Erasmus, Education of a Christian Prince; Ibn al-Muqaffa’, Kalilah and Dimnah, John of Salisbury, Policraticus: Book of the Statesman; Machiavelli, The Prince; Nizam al-Mulk, The Book of Government. All texts are in English translation. Instructor permission required.
M 3:30pm-5:20pm

NELC 6580a / RLST 7210a, Introduction to Arabic and Islamic Studies  Travis Zadeh

Comprehensive survey of the various subjects treated in Arabic and Islamic studies, with representative readings from each. Detailed investigation into the methods and techniques of scholarship in the field, with emphasis on acquiring familiarity with the bibliographical and other research tools.
HTBA

NELC 7260a, The Archaeology of Abusir: Tombs, Temples, and Settlements  Nadine Moeller

This graduate seminar focuses on the recent archaeological discoveries and research made at the ancient site of Abusir, located on the western desert edge, south of modern Cairo, Egypt. Abusir was an important royal necropolis starting in Dynasty 5 (ca. 2495–2345 BCE) which included pyramids and mastaba tombs of Egypt’s elite and courtiers. It is also the site of the enigmatic sun-temples that had religious and economic functions. Remains of settlements have been detected in relation to the mortuary and valley temples associated with the pyramids at the site. However, the occupation and building activities at Abusir did not stop in the Old Kingdom but saw the construction of a Ramesside temple and the emergence of an important cemetery dating to the Saite-Persian Period (sixth century BCE) later on. The recent fieldwork by several Czech missions has resulted in some groundbreaking new publications, which are studied and discussed in depth during this seminar. By instructor permission only. This seminar requires a good foundation in ancient Egyptian history and culture.
Th 1:30pm-3:20pm

NELC 7290b / ANTH 5328b / ARCG 5328b, Magic and Ritual in Ancient Egypt and the Near East  John Darnell

Introduction to ancient Egyptian and Near East magic and rituals with an overview on the use of magic and discussion of the different rituals and festivals.
MW 2:30pm-3:45pm

NELC 7320a, The Valley of the Kings: Its Life and Afterlife  Nicholas Brown

This course provides students with an introduction to the New Kingdom royal necropolis at Thebes—the Valley of the Kings. Throughout the semester, students are introduced to several important subjects related to this archaeological site, including the “lifecycle” and “afterlife” of the necropolis. Students explore the origins of the valley, its development over time, and the eventual decline of this royal burial ground. As a class, we explore the boundaries and rules of death space: who has access and when? How did the natural topography affect the development of the necropolis over time? What influences do religious beliefs and political, social, and economic events have on the evolution of this sacred space over time? The overall goal of this graduate seminar is to examine this important site through a different perspective, to view the activities of western Thebes during the New Kingdom through a new lens.
T 1:30pm-3:20pm

NELC 7430a / ARCG 6345a / ARCG 645, Archaeology of Ancient Egypt - The Age of the Pyramids  Gregory Marouard

This lecture course introduces the archaeology of ancient Egypt, beginning with an overview of the environment, climate, and history of the discipline, as well as the new archaeological methods used in contemporary fieldwork in Egypt. The course then explores ancient Egypt’s origins, starting with the Predynastic and Early Dynastic Periods (5300-2800 BCE) and continuing chronologically to the great pyramids of the Old Kingdom (2800-2055 BCE) and the Middle Kingdom (2055-1700 BCE). It covers the historical framework, the evolution of ancient Egyptian art and architecture, and material culture, and includes specific case studies of important archaeological sites and discoveries. This course is the first of two introductory lecture courses. However, it is not necessary to take both parts, and the order in which you take them does not matter. Discussion sections are included.
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

NELC 7440b / ARCG 6242b, Ancient Egyptian Materials and Techniques: Their Histories and Socioeconomic Implications  Gregory Marouard

This seminar investigates in detail ancient Egyptian materials, techniques, and industries through the scope of archaeology, history, and socioeconomical, textual, and iconographic data. When possible, ethnoarchaeological and experimental approaches of the antique chaîne-opératoire are discussed in order to illustrate skills and professions that have now completely disappeared. This class is organized according to various themes within a diachronical approach, from the fourth millennium BCE to the Roman period. Copper and precious metals, construction stones, hard stones and gems, glass and faience production, imported wood or ivory—we explore multiple categories of materials; where and how they were collected or exchanged; the way these products were transported, transformed, refined, or assembled; and the complex organization of the work involved and administration that was required in order to satisfy the tastes of Egyptian elites or their desires to worship their gods. Some other vernacular savoir-faire linked to everyday life and death is explored, through food production and mummification practices. The aim is not only to give an overview of the history of techniques for this early civilization but also, beyond how things were made, to acquire a more critical view of ancient Egyptian culture through material culture and the strong economic and sociological implications linked to objects and constructions―rather than the usual focus on Egyptian temples and tombs.
Th 1:30pm-3:20pm

NELC 8290b, History of the Arabic Language  Kevin van Bladel

The course covers the development of the Arabic language from the earliest epigraphic evidence through the formation of the Classical ’Arabiyya and further, to Middle Arabic and Neo-Arabic. Readings of textual specimens and survey of secondary literature.
MW 1pm-2:15pm

OTTM 5300b, Reading and Research in Ottoman History and Literature  Ozgen Felek

This is a text reading course. The course aims to introduce students to a variety of historical and literary Ottoman texts and documents from the fourteenth to nineteenth centuries. We read and analyze excerpts from original Ottoman texts, such as the chronicles, heroic narratives, advice books, physiognomy texts, travel accounts, and hagiographical stories. The students participating in the course develop skills that enable them to read Ottoman Turkish texts and pursue independent work in Ottoman studies. Prerequisite: knowledge of modern Turkish is required.
MW 4pm-5:15pm

OTTM 6900a, Directed Readings: European Goods in the Fifteenth and Early Sixteenth-Century Ottoman Archives  Ozgen Felek

Under the supervision of the instructor, students read, study, and analyze Ottoman texts from a variety of genres.
HTBA

OTTM 6930a, Ottoman Society Through the Lens of its Gazettes: Late Nineteenth–Early Twentieth Centuries  Ozgen Felek

This course explores nineteenth- to twentieth-century Ottoman society, culture, and politics through the lens of its gazettes. The first official gazette of the Ottoman Empire, the Takvim-i Vekayi, was published in 1831, followed ten years later by the second major newspaper, the Ceride-i Havadis (1840). Following these two earliest Turkish newspapers, the Ottoman press began to evolve independently of the state newspapers, with publications beginning to openly criticize government policies. This course focuses on chronological readings of articles and essays published in Ottoman newspapers to help students understand the nineteenth- and twentieth-century Ottoman society from direct accounts and perspectives. We read excerpts from popular newspapers of the period, starting with the Takvim-i Vekayi and other gazettes published in Ottoman script until the alphabet revolution in 1928. Students examine the evolutions of themes of women’s roles, fashion, minorities, social and cultural events, intellectual, literary, and political movements in the Ottoman (and early Republican) society. These readings also highlight the evolution of the Ottoman language through the contributions of influential writers of the period. The course emphasizes building a richer vocabulary, developing proficiency in Ottoman Turkish reading skills, and deepening an understanding of Turkish grammar and syntax. Students engage with key principles of textual criticism to achieve a deeper understanding of Ottoman society, linguistics, and cultural transformations as reflected in its press.
TTh 4pm-5:15pm

PERS 5000a, Elementary Persian I  Farkhondeh Shayesteh

A two-term introduction to modern Persian with emphasis on all four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The objective is to allow students to develop the foundational knowledge necessary for further language study. Designed for nonnative speakers.
MTWThF 10:30am-11:20am

PERS 5010b, Elementary Persian II  Farkhondeh Shayesteh

A two-term introduction to modern Persian with emphasis on all four language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The objective is to allow students to develop the foundational knowledge necessary for further language study. Designed for nonnative speakers.
MTWThF 10:30am-11:20am

PERS 5020a, Intermediate Persian I  Farkhondeh Shayesteh

This two-term course is a continuation of PERS 5010 with emphasis on expanding vocabulary and understanding of more complex grammatical forms and syntax. Designed for nonnative speakers. Prerequisite: PERS 5010 or permission of the instructor.
MTWThF 9:25am-10:15am

PERS 5030b, Intermediate Persian II  Farkhondeh Shayesteh

This two-term course is a continuation of PERS 5010 with emphasis on expanding vocabulary and understanding of more complex grammatical forms and syntax. Designed for nonnative speakers. Prerequisite: PERS 5010 or permission of the instructor.
MTWThF 11:35am-12:25pm

PERS 5040a, Thematic Survey of Modern Persian Literature  Farkhondeh Shayesteh

An advanced course focusing on continuing development of language skills for nonnative speakers. Emphasis on reading and writing through modern Persian literary prose and poetry. Prerequisite: PERS 5020 or permission of the instructor.
TTh 1pm-2:15pm

SMTC 5230a / RLST 8480a, Intermediate Syriac I  Jimmy Daccache

This two-term course is designed to enhance students’ knowledge of the Syriac language by reading a selection of texts, sampling the major genres of classical Syriac literature. By the end of the year, students are familiar with non-vocalized texts and are capable of confronting specific grammatical or lexical problems. Prerequisite: RLST 839 / SMTC 5140 or knowledge of Syriac.
T 9am-10:50am

SMTC 5420a, Introduction to Classical Ethiopic  Hannah Stork

An introduction to the Classical Ethiopic language, focusing on acquiring the essentials of grammar and vocabulary. Prerequisite: knowledge of a Semitic language or permission of the instructor.
HTBA

SMTC 5430b, Readings in Classical Ethiopic  Hannah Stork

Reading and analysis of texts in Classical Ethiopic. Prerequisite: SMTC 5420 or knowledge of Classical Ethiopic.
HTBA

SMTC 5470a / RLST 8370a, Northwest Semitic Inscriptions: Official Aramaic  Jimmy Daccache

Official Aramaic is the lingua franca of the Persian Empire during the sixth and fourth centuries BCE. This course is designed to familiarize students with texts from Achaemenid Egypt (the abundant papyri of Elephantine and Hermopolis), Bactria, Anatolia, and Mesopotamia. The Aramaic grammar is illustrated through the texts. Prerequisite: RLST 835, or some knowledge of Aramaic or a related Semitic language.
M 9am-10:50am

SMTC 5530a / RLST 8740a, Advanced Syriac I  Jimmy Daccache

This course is designed for graduate students who are proficient in Syriac and is organized topically. Topics vary each term and are listed in the syllabus on Canvas.
T 11am-12:50pm