Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/archaeology-city-levant-west
### Course Review: At the Origins of the Mediterranean Civilization: Archaeology of the City from the Levant to the West - 3rd-1st Millennium BC #### Overview The online course "At the Origins of the Mediterranean Civilization: Archaeology of the City from the Levant to the West - 3rd-1st Millennium BC" available on Coursera is a deep and engaging exploration of the cultural and historical foundations that shaped the Mediterranean region. It delves into the complex origins of what we now term 'Mediterranean Civilization' through the lens of archaeology, tracing how various peoples, ideas, and innovations intermingled to give rise to cities as centers of community life. This course offers students the opportunity to uncover the rich tapestry of exchanges that not only influenced the physical landscapes but also fostered distinct identities across ancient societies. #### Course Structure and Syllabus The syllabus features several intriguing modules that guide participants through key aspects of Mediterranean urban development and the cultural transformations over the millennia. The course is structured into the following primary themes: 1. **Towards the West** - This section sets the stage by situating the Mediterranean within its geographical and historical context, exploring the direction of cultural evolution towards the western territories. 2. **Concept of the City** - Here, students will dissect what constitutes a city in ancient times and how urbanization impacted social structures, governance, and daily life. 3. **Discovering Motya** - Focusing on the archaeological findings from Motya, this module offers insights into a specific settlement that reflects broader Mediterranean influences and interactions. 4. **Life and Ideology** - This exploration of the ideological frameworks that dominated Mediterranean life provides a fascinating look at religion, belief systems, and their sociopolitical ramifications. 5. **Stars Sparkling in the Waters** - A poetic title, this section likely discusses maritime trade, navigation, and the role of the sea as a conduit for cultural and commercial exchange. 6. **An Identity to Share** - This module examines the shared identities that formed among diverse peoples, emphasizing the synthesis of traditions and practices that fostered unity amidst diversity. 7. **A Changing Society** - Students will analyze the transformative periods in Mediterranean history, focusing on the fluctuations in population, economy, and culture. 8. **Portrait of a Harbour City** - This concluding section will likely synthesize previous learnings by examining a specific harbor city, encapsulating all the themes discussed in the course. #### Learning Experience The course is designed to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their prior knowledge of archaeology or Mediterranean history. The engaging multimedia resources, including videos, readings, and interactive discussions, enrich the learning experience. With expert instruction and comprehensive content, the course promotes critical thinking and equips learners with a nuanced understanding of ancient societies. #### Who Should Take This Course? This course is ideal for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the cultural dynamics of the Mediterranean region. It may also benefit scholars and students in fields such as anthropology, cultural studies, and regional history. Professionals in education, tourism, and other related fields might find valuable content to enhance their work. #### Recommendation I highly recommend "At the Origins of the Mediterranean Civilization: Archaeology of the City from the Levant to the West - 3rd-1st Millennium BC" for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of how the Mediterranean transformed into a melting pot of civilizations. The course not only provides informative content but also encourages learners to think critically about the interconnections that have defined humanity's past. It's an intellectually rewarding journey that is well worth the investment of time and effort. Sign up on Coursera today, and embark on an enlightening exploration that will expand your cultural horizons.
Towards the West
Concept of the cityDiscovering MotyaLife and IdeologyStars sparkling in the watersAn Identity to shareA changing societyPortrait of an harbour cityWhich are the deepest roots of that mix of cultures that we use to call ‘Mediterranean Civilization’? Which are comminglings and exchanges which produced its most complete fruit, i.e. the city, a place for landscape-modelling communities? And which elements did contribute to build up that baulk of customs, ideas, and innovations which compelled to confrontation and hybridizations different peoples for millennia? What did it made, from pottery to metallurgy, from gastronomy to architecture, from
It’s an absolutely phenomenal course, but the instructor can be difficult to understand at times for an English speaker, with that being said, the instructor is phenomenal as well.
Thank you Professor Nigrio for your work in putting together this wonderful course. Thanks also to Sapienza University staff who helped in this effort.
This was a great course, it was great to be out 'on location' with the archaeologists and Lorenzo Nigro. There was also a great selection of reading material which offered more in-depth information.
A fascinating course. I had to work hard to understand the material, but I enjoyed the challenge. I intend to review the course materials - I'm sure I will learn even more the second time through.
A very informative and interesting study of the origins of Mediterranean civilization. The course is packed with examples and explanations and delivered by the superb Prof. Nigro