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Tacitus and the Reign of Nero, 2004.
Examines the narrative style of Tacitus in his "Annals of Tacitus" and whether Nero's reign was portrayed with historical accuracy.
2,075 words (approx. 8.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 81.95
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Abstract
By examining the "Annals of Tacitus", the paper establishes where Tacitus' sympathies lay and how these feelings colour the text irreversibly with regard to the reign of the notorious Emperor Nero. It explains why these opinions were formed and how far he is likely to have worked with the methods of a modern historian. It discusses the "literary" feel of the writing and the effects this has, but also evaluates Tacitus by the standards of a modern historian.
From the Paper
"The reign of the notorious Emperor Nero comes last in the Annals of Tacitus, with the final part of his reign missing. In this final section of the Annals, Tacitus charts the downfall of the young emperor, from his beginnings as a young man ("still almost a boy") surrounded by manipulative advisers and relatives to his eventual, violent demise as an extravagant, tyrannical madman. The story of Nero's reign is skilfully written in Tacitus' trademark "silver Latin", and quite entertaining. However, it is important to note that Tacitus can scarcely be considered an historian by today's stringent standards, since he does not evaluate source material to give a fair and balanced view of the period of Nero's reign."
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Evolutionary Theory, 2002.
This paper summarizes Riane Eisler's "Cultural Transformation Theory" as presented in her book, "The Chalice and the Blade."
3,275 words (approx. 13.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 116.95
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Abstract
The author addresses the arguments within the historical sciences, which include environmental archaeology, over the type of data, qualitative or quantitative, that is most appropriate for advancing knowledge in the field. In light of these controversies, the author suggests an approach that includes a revision of traditional qualitative approaches through the application of Eisler's cultural theories.
From the Paper
"Riane Eisler?s The Chalice and the Blade, published in 1988, presents a new theory of human cultural evolution, as well as a new vision of reconstructed history. Eisler draws from archaeological discoveries made in the latter half of the 20th century, as well as from mythology and contemporary feminist re-interpretations of earlier archaeological discoveries and mythology. She develops an idea of cultural evolution based on the ?chaos theory?, which provides the rubric for her understanding of systems change. She calls her idea ?Cultural Transformation Theory?. It is based in basic biological principles and presents ideas about the ways in which humans have interacted with their environment over time. Her study is an interesting one for environmental archaeology as a science because it challenges the prevailing cultural theories in the field."
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Archaeological Evidence to Support Mythology, 2004.
Looks at modern archaeological evidence as a possible source for ancient Greek myths and legends.
1,650 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 66.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at specific fossil and archaeological evidence and specimens as possible sources for ancient Greek myths. It explores specific fossil bed sites and their relationship to the ancient world, as well as possible theories of how the ancients must have come across and created legends for various species of pre-historic creatures. The paper includes photographs.
From the Paper
"The ancient scholar Pausanias described some of these bones as ?enormous but apparently human? when he visited the sanctuary of Askiepios, a rich fossil bed. Many fossils were claimed by the ancients to be the bones of local heroes, since many of these heroes were said to be of extraordinary height and stature. When these bones were found, they would be reburied in a ceremonial fashion and placed inside large coffins. These sites were then lost to the local?s knowledge; so later in time Greeks would dig up large coffins with bones in them and then reclaim to have found the buried remains of local heroes."
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Edward Gibbon, 2004.
A research paper on the famous historiographer who wrote 'The "Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire".
2,201 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 11 sources, MLA, AU$ 85.95
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Abstract
A discussion of the life and contribution of Edward Gibbon. The paper gives a brief background of the historian and then summarizes the major points raised in the book, including Christianity, the rise of the empire, the Ceasars and the reasons for the fall of the great empire.
From the Paper
"The British historian, Edward Gibbon (1737-1794) is well-known for his monumental masterpiece, "The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire". His major accomplishment in this book was that he articulates the basic causations of the decline and fall of the Roman Empire in his famous book. Many people would argue that Gibbon??s main point of the causation was the triumph of the barbarism and the church; but according to his writing, although he mentions those two factors a lot, the internal problems, which are the failure of the emperor and the domination of the Praetorian Guards, were the causation to the fall of the Empire. Gibbon has been given credits on his brilliant critiques on the history, and his modern way of writing history, but he has paid too much attention on the wars than the social factors, and he overemphasizes the influence of the historical figures whereas neglected the function of the mass. In addition to it, he condemns too much on the Christianity with out an impartial judgment, which draws him on the waves of the critiques. However, his criticism, his huge references, and his modern way of composing historiography outweigh his weakness in this work, and make him one of the greatest historians in human history."
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Egypt: Achievements and Influence, 2004.
An examination of the greatest intellectual and artistic achievements of ancient Egypt and assesment of their influence upon Western civilization.
3,068 words (approx. 12.3 pages), 14 sources, APA, AU$ 111.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how the Egyptians were a civilization that impressionably influenced Western society and they did so through their artwork, architecture and literature, which permeated Western society?s thought and created an architectural intrigue which still exists in present day. Incorporating a vast amount of primary and secondary resources, this paper is a detailed analysis of the Egyptian legacy.
From the Paper
"Egyptian literature varies widely including Pyramid texts, which were named for their location ? in the pyramid tombs of the pharaohs, stories, hymns, wisdom texts, poems, love songs, biographical and historical texts, scientific treatises, and mathematical and medical texts. The Pyramid texts are the oldest and most popular form of Egyptian literature. They coincide with the rise of pyramids in the Old Kingdom. They served as a way to guide the tomb owner to the afterlife, enchanting him with incantations to secure his safe passage, sometimes describing his achievements on earth in order to gain favor with the gods."
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The Decline in Egyptian Civilization, 2004.
The Egyptian Society declined rapidly from the end of the Eighteenth Dynasty. The relationship between this decline and economic conditions, the position of weakened pharaohs and warfare is examined.
3,451 words (approx. 13.8 pages), 10 sources, APA, AU$ 121.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the causes of the decline of the ancient Egyptian civilization and argues that a number of factors played a role. Among these are a shift from economic prosperity to poverty, the weakening power of the pharaoh (related to the rise of the priesthood and royal instability) and continuous warfare with neighbouring societies.
From the Paper
"From the Egyptian state?s origins in the Old Kingdom, circa 2575 B.C., it flourished in relative isolation from other civilizations. It was protected by the Mediterranean in the north, the desert in the east and west, and by an ?ethnic frontier? in the south (Adams, 1984, p. 38). During this time of remoteness, the Egyptian state built complex pyramid structures, developed a unique religion and established a political system based on the supremacy of the pharaoh and a hereditary bureaucracy (Fagan, 2004, p. 385). However, the prosperity and stability of the Old Kingdom (circa 2575 to 2180 B.C.) could not last forever, and since several succeeding pharaohs lacked leadership Egypt entered a period in which the central power of the government declined and local leaders became independent rulers within their own territories (Fagan, 2004, p. 389). In conjunction with this decline in power, came a prolonged drought cycle, but this led to improvements in agriculture and eventually to a rapid increase in population, though famines continued to strike for over three hundred years. Trade networks were vastly expanded during the Middle Kingdom (2134 to 1640 B.C.) and parts of the desert lands of Nubia were conquered, the first signs of imperial ambitions (Fagan, 2004, p. 390). The second intermediate period, occurring between 1640 and 1530 B.C., brought political instability and economic disorder to Egypt once again. However, in the same way that the first intermediate period brought improvements to the Egyptian civilization, this new period of instability brought several innovations that preserved Egypt?s role in the eastern Mediterranean world (Fagan, 2004, p. 391). The New Kingdom, 1530 to 1070 B.C., brought with it periods of extensive wealth, an expansive empire, and political stability, though these qualities were quickly dissolved with the last of the long-lived pharaohs Rameses III (Fagan, 2004, p. 391; Ibid, p. 395). The last years of the Egyptian dynasties were marked by a ?succession of short-lived, sometimes competing and generally unremarkable kings?(Rice, 1997, p. 1980). After this time political weakness opened the door to the rapidly evolving civilizations crowding Egypt?s borders. By about 1000 B.C. the country was bankrupt and the influence of other ancient civilizations, Assyrians and Persians followed by the Greeks, came to dominate the Nile Valley (Clayton, 1994, p. 173). The decline of the Egyptian civilization resulted from the complex interplay of several factors including economic conditions, a weakening of the pharaohs? power, and warfare with other complex societies."
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The Persian Wars and Greek Society, 2003.
A look at how the Persian Wars acted as a fulcrum and incentive for change within Greek society.
3,870 words (approx. 15.5 pages), 12 sources, APA, AU$ 131.95
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Abstract
This paper explores how the Persian Wars changed the society of the Greeks, with a special focus on Athens. It attempts to compare the Archaic and Classical periods socially and culturally by using the Persian War as the fulcrum between Archaic and Classical. It also addresses the Persian War as the instigator of resistance that prompted changes within the classical period. It examines the changes in politics, art, literature, economics and intra-poleis relations.
Outline
Democratic Expansion
'Poliscentrism' vs. Imperialism ? The Athenian Empire
Economics ? Money, Money Makes a Man
The Progression of the Arts: The ?Explosive? Archaic and the ?Golden Age?
?There is No Growth Without Resistance? ? A Conclusion
From the Paper
"The reforms of Solon did little to advance democratic rights for the Athenians, whilst he certainly took the first step in ending debt-bondage, it can hardly be considered a leaping bound for democracy. In 508 BC, Cleisthenes reorganised political groupings into a great number of tribes so as to break the strength of the clans. Cleisthenes then set about embedding main constitutional power in the Assembly; in spite of this the check of power was still held by elected archons and those of the Areopagus who were almost always of the aristocratic elite. The limitation on how far democracy was allowed to go was always in place. The Archaic Period in regards to the fulfilment or expansion of democracy, and certainly in comparison to the changes to be made in the Classical Period was more the planting of a seed - that would be later cultivated by Pericles."
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Social Status in Ancient Cities, 2004.
A discussion into the contributions of various factors into the determination of social status within the ancient cities of the Romans and Greeks.
3,600 words (approx. 14.4 pages), 10 sources, APA, AU$ 125.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews gender, class, money, military purpose, citizenship, behaviour - including hubris and sycophancy and patronage, as different facets determining social class in Ancient Greece and Rome. The range of subjects discussed span over the Greek, Hellenistic and Roman periods, including different examples from many different cities.
From the Paper
"Throughout this essay, it is pertinent to realise that the idea of public and private spheres is an 18th Century premise with no basis in the Ancient world where privacy and community overlapped and were not separate ?worlds?, rather, there were degrees of closeness. In establishing those inside and outside of the social hierarchy this overlap causes considerable confusion in evaluating factors for status. It would be remise to view women as lack any social status because of lack of political rights; women still played a very important role within society."
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Graeco-Roman Cities, 2004.
An exploration of the distinctive, common characteristics of the cities of the Graeco-Roman world.
3,731 words (approx. 14.9 pages), 13 sources, MLA, AU$ 129.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the ancient and modern attitudes towards what is considered a city and then creates a 'model' based upon this discussion. It explores and compares the following features, in Greek, Roman and Hellenistic worlds: The concept of a relatively large, nucleated settlement, independence, autonomy and self-government, complex public space and buildings and identity. It also looks at the concepts of protective Gods and founding hero figures.
From the Paper
"As established Pausanias earlier rejection of the ?upstart? town, he advocated that he did not base any rejection on grounds of its small size. Aristotle concurs with this view of smallness, believing it to be a necessary condition - A great city is not to be confounded with a populous one. Babylon, to Aristotle, was a negation of a true city, a symbol of elephantiasis . Comparative demography of the modern Mediterranean has been used in league with average tribute assessments to ascertain the population of a region . Both cannot give us an absolute number of citizens for neither voting numbers take into account children, women and slaves nor can we be sure that they represent a typical turn out."
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Cleopatra: The Last Pharaoh, 2004.
A analysis of the rule of Cleopatra with a special focus on her personal life.
1,803 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 4 sources, APA, AU$ 71.95
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Abstract
Cleopatra was an intelligent and powerful ruler, but she was also a woman. The paper tells the story of Cleopatra?s life, from her birth to her death, highlighting the most famous points of her life. The paper mostly concentrates on her love affairs with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony and her time as the queen of Egypt.
From the Paper
"When one hears the name Cleopatra one instantly thinks of a beautiful and powerful queen who ruled over Egypt with a firm hand. In reality, she was far from beautiful. On ancient coins she is depicted with a long, hooked nose and masculine features.1 Yet she was clearly a very seductive woman.2 She had an enchantingly musical voice and overwhelming charisma. She was also highly intelligent. She spoke nine languages and was the first pharaoh in the Ptolemy family who could actually speak Egyptian.3 Cleopatra was the last pharaoh of Egypt, but who was the actual woman behind the queen? Was she truly a powerful leader or did her lovers give her power?"
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Jewish Self-Government, 2004.
Extensive history of the Jewish people from the 7th century until present times.
4,283 words (approx. 17.1 pages), 19 sources, MLA, AU$ 141.95
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Abstract
This paper provides a thorough history of the Jewish people. Within this historical perspective, the paper emphasizes the form of self-government Jews practiced through the ages, the role religion played in their lives, and the persecution they suffered under different rulers. The paper covers Jewish history from the 7th century until the present day.
From the Paper
"For centuries, the Jews were not only a scattered and much-subjugated people, but also a much-despised and persecuted race. Hatred of the Jews, or anti-Semitism, dates back to their expulsion and dispersion from Palestine in the 7th century, down to contemporary times, because they were a sullen, unsociable and haughty people (Lazare 1998). Unlike other conquered races, which submitted to the conqueror?s laws and separated these laws from their religious beliefs, in adapting themselves to circumstances, the Jews did not and could not accept the laws of other nations, even their own conquerors. Neither was it conceivable to them to submit to conquerors."
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Greek and Roman Deities, 2004.
Discusses the similarities that existed between ancient Greek and Roman deities.
783 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 3 sources, APA, AU$ 34.95
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Abstract
In ancient Greece and Rome, traditions, histories, and other elements of society were passed down as oral traditions from one generation to another. While ancient Greek culture predates Roman culture, the two cultures developed a degree of interaction and similarity between the peoples. The mythology of these two cultures reflected many of the ethical issues that were important in that time. This paper shows that it is not surprising, considering their close geographic proximity, that there was a certain degree of mixing of cultures and, consequently, mythology as well. The research explores the similarities and differences between Greek and Roman deities.
From the Paper
"Virgil wrote the Aeneid in the early Roman period, which was based largely on the Greek understanding of the gods and goddesses. However, he wrote characters that would appeal to the Roman social structure and ideology, and ?romanized? the Greek deities. His works were based on the Greek writer Homer, who portrayed Zeus and Hera as petty complainers. The Roman ideals would not allow for a noble complainer, therefore Virgil transformed Zeus and Hera into heroic Jupiter and an angry God Juno, who struck fear in the hearts of men."
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Food and Drink in Ancient Rome, 2004.
An in-depth look at the eating habits and dietary make-up of the ancient Romans.
16,650 words (approx. 66.6 pages), 53 sources, APA, AU$ 311.95
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Abstract
This dissertation discusses the culinary and food habits of the ancient Romans, with special emphasis on the history of wine, olives and olive oil, and bread and baking. The paper also examines typical recipes that provided for the early Roman cuisine. It includes numerous photographs, illustrations, and archaeological findings.
From the Paper
"As the flour milling techniques became more refined, the Romans began to produce top quality bread by singly finely milled wheat flour. This flour was called siligo. The bread that came from it was called Panis Siligineus. The first word means bread in Latin; the second denotes the type of grain from which the bread was made. There was another type of bread that could be considered an Egyptian import. This was called Alexandrian bread due to the crust that was created in Alexandria from local wheat. (Dl.ket.org, 2001)"
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?Black Athena? and ?Not Out of Africa?, 2004.
Discusses and compares these two works on African cultural archaeology.
1,048 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 45.95
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Abstract
Martin Bernal, author of ?Black Athena?, argues that numerous cultural achievements that are, by tradition, attributed to the ancient Greeks, are actually found in Africa, specifically, the Egyptians. Mary Lefkowitz, author of ?Not Out of Africa,? argues that Bernal?s findings and assumptions are incorrect. This essay examines both works and discusses the opposing views.
From the Paper
"Berlinerblau, in his review of Lefkowitz?s book, discusses the importance of academic inquiry unencumbered by political conerns (Berlinerblau Pp). Lefkowitz refers to Bernal as an armchair archaeologist. However, she is not the only critic of Bernal?s work (Berlinerblau Pp). Robert Palter writes, ?Bernal?s rhetoric is predicated, unwittingly?on ignorance and superficial understanding? (Berlinerblau Pp)."
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Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt, 2004.
An overview of the environment and development of Mesopotamia and Ancient Egypt.
2,244 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper describes early life in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia and how the environment developed. The writer explains the significance of agriculture in bringing the people to live together in villages and sustain themselves from farming near the rivers and waterways. The paper includes details of recent archaeological discoveries in the area that support the claims.
From the Paper
"Since the early years of archeological studies, it was thought that these developments occurred concurrently, meaning that they were devised and utilized at approximately the same time; however, recent archeological research has forced this view to change, for it is now clear that "Mesopotamia and its environs were far ahead of Egypt, at least temporarily, some five thousand years ago" (Snell, 178). Numerous village/farming communities in present-day Iraq date back to the mid seventh millennium B.C.E., and the remarkable fortified town of Jericho appears to be even older. In Egypt, the oldest settlements, located near the delta of the Nile River, do not seem to have been founded much before 4500 B.C.E., and furthermore, an urban society like those found in Mesopotamia seems to have never developed there."
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Cleopatra, 2004.
A biographical analysis of Cleopatra.
1,058 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the life of one of the most famous rulers in history, Cleopatra. Specifically, it includes important facts of Cleopatra's life and her contribution to civilization. It shows how Cleopatra was one of the most legendary queens in history. She influenced Egypt's civilization in many ways and is still studied today, a testament to her lasting endurance as a monarch and celebrity.
From the Paper
"Cleopatra has been immortalized in film, on stage, and in print as a great woman ruler and lover. However, the truth of her story is far different than most of what is portrayed in fiction. Modern readers seem to think of Cleopatra as a sultry temptress, who ruled according to her whims, rather than her wit. However, many historians find this is not the case. John, Bishop of Nikiu in Upper Egypt in the 7th century AD called her "'the most illustrious and wise of women'" (Walker 6). Cleopatra's rule in Egypt would be the last of the famous Ptolemies, and her rule would mark historic changes in Egypt's and the world's history."
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