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Human Evolution, 2008.
Describes human evolution beginning with the separation of hominids from anthropoids about 5-6 million years ago.
1,605 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 12 sources, MLA, AU$ 82.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, as human evolution progressed from the australopithecines to Homo sapiens, early man began to walk upright, use fire, tools and language and create culture. The author describes the main species known in the evolutionary tract but omits other intermediates for which very few fossils have been found. Of these know species, the paper discusses distinguishing characteristics, what type of tool culture they had, and if they had any type of socialization. The author presents briefly famous archaeological finds. Includes many figures.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Australopithecines
Homo
Homo Habilis
Homo Erectus/ Homo Ergaster
Homo Neanderthalensis
Homo Sapiens
Cro-Magnon
Homo Sapien Sapien
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The most famous Australopithecine fossil is Lucy. The A. afarensis fossils were found in Hader, Ethiopia and were about 40% complete, including bipedal kneecaps and molars and front teeth similar to humans rather than great apes. Another famous fossil find was the Taung infant, found by Raymond Dart in Taung, South Africa. The A. africanus fossil consisted of the face, mandible, and a natural endocast of the brain case. Another famous find was the set of three footprints in Laetoli, Tanzania, by Mary Leakey."
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Pharaoh Ramses II, 2008.
This paper describes the extraordinary reign of Pharaoh Ramses II of Egypt (c.1279-1212 BC), also known as Ramses the Great.
2,040 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 101.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Pharaoh Ramses II was a powerful ruler, a successful diplomat, a masterful publicist and prolific builder. The author points out that Ramses II, whose throne name was "Usi-ma-re Setepenre" ("Strong in right is Re, Chosen of Re"), was the third Egyptian pharaoh of the nineteenth dynasty. The paper includes a section of "Epic Poem of Pentaur" in which Ramses II describes the battle as a personal triumph under insurmountable odds against the Hittites. The author describes Ramesseum, a mortuary temple in Thebes, built by Ramses II as a memorial to praise forever his military and diplomatic achievements, and Pi-Ramses, modern Qantir, the great capital city. The paper relates that one of the major discoveries in Pi-Ramses occurred in the early twenty-first century when archaeologists unearthed a glass making workshop.
From the Paper
"Ramses II set out to recapture Kadesh, a strategically located city in Syria. Ramses II took his troops into the area of Kadesh. While traveling toward the city, he and his first two military divisions became separated from the remaining two divisions that lingered behind him. Two men who had met up with the Egyptian army provided intentionally false information to the Egyptians as to the location of the Hittite army. Believing that the Hittite troops were farther off than their actual location (while waiting for his remaining divisions to arrive) he moved his troops near the city and began to set up camp."
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Stele of Hammurabi, 2005.
A discussion of the ancient Babylonian stele of Hammurabi and the judicial codes enscribed upon it.
1,103 words (approx. 4.4 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 60.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the stele of Hammurabi and discusses the information that surrounds it and how it correlates with today's western society. The paper recounts the general history of the ancient Babylonian king, Hammurabi, paying particular attention to his codes protecting all classes of the Babylonian society, including women and slaves. The paper also addresses the social and judicial structures, many of which are outlined on the stele. The paper concludes that Hammurabi gave to the world not only a set of laws that ruled society and business, but also a tradition of the importance of justice under those laws. The paper includes an appendix, which provides a translation of the enscription on the stele of Hammurabi.
From the Paper
"Hammurabi's Code consists of 44 columns of text, 28 paragraphs, of which contain the actual code. There are 282 laws, possibly more have been rubbed off, that probably amended common Babylonian law rather than define it. The code describes regulations for legal procedure, fixed rates on services performed in most branches of commerce and describes property rights, personal injury, and penalties for false testimony and accusations. The code has no laws regarding religion."
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Ancient African Art, 2008.
A discussion of forms, functions and themes in West and Central African art.
1,063 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes human portraiture in ancient African art. It explains that some of the earliest and most sophisticated forms of self-representation via art come from west and central Africa and the visual artistic output of these portions of the continent easily rival that of Europe some 1500 years later. The paper points out that the first known examples of such projected human images generally came in the form of sculpture and this method of portraiture resulted in a legacy of sophisticated human countenance pieces that demonstrated a cross-section of abstract interpretation and perhaps the first example of naturalism. The paper notes that the use of portraiture was generally only reserved for royalty and most of what we know today about this comes from an assimilation of oral tradition and interpretive archaeological intuition. The paper also looks at the earliest traceable discovery of human portraiture in Nigeria - the Nok era. The paper discusses the exclusivity of portraiture and looks at how the naturalistic tendencies of representation suggest that these likenesses were designed to reflect the appearance of specific individuals.
From the Paper
"The earliest traceable discovery marking such qualities is the Male Head Nok, so named for the Nok region of Nigeria from where it was excavated. The Nok era denoted by the head is regarded as occurring around 500BC and lasting until 200AD. It is indicative of that time by its terra cotta composition which reflects a common form for portraiture at the time. This was concurrent with the Iron Age, so much forging of iron was also part and parcel of artistic expression. In addition, wood carving would come to take on a significant role in portraiture. The Male Head Nok, featuring a dramatically up-scaled crown, a narrow but upwardly widening head, broad eyes and deeply flattened nostrils. The man depicted here helps both to preserve some possible physical characteristics of the ancient subject and to give future generations an indication of the interpretive elements involved in rendering human likeness."
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The Alfred Jewel, 2008.
A discussion of the history, purpose and significance of the Alfred Jewel.
1,553 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 79.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the Alfred Jewel, its design, purpose and significance. It explains that this jewel was the first Anglo-Saxon artifact ever to be found on British territory and that it is one of the most renowned objects to remain intact from Anglo-Saxon England, and is typically linked with Alfred the Great, king of the West Saxons from 871-99. The paper looks at the various interpretations of the design in the enamel of the jewel. The paper also explores the different theories on the supposed purpose of the Jewel. The paper also explains how the Alfred Jewel landed up in the Ashmolean Museum in England.
From the Paper
"Since the jewel was discovered, there has been much speculation as to what purpose it was meant to serve. One theory is that the jewel was a symbol of office, either of Alfred or of one of his officials (Roberts). Alfred wholeheartedly devoted himself to providing his people with a valuable understanding of many subjects. Many scholars believe that the image carved into the enamel of the Alfred Jewel is mean to portray Christ as the embodied form of Wisdom of god (Hinton 51). It is common for objects from the Anglo-Saxon period to be adorned with explicitly Christian objects. Alfred had aspirations to use his own virtue and wisdom to acquire authority. Given that Alfred perceived power in such a manner, he might have considered the Alfred Jewel to be representative of worldly office."
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Gendered Grave Goods, 2005.
Contrasts three Anglo-Saxon inhumations by examining gendered grave-goods in order to learn how this portrayal of the feminine gender through grave-goods sheds light on the culture of a woman and her community.
3,379 words (approx. 13.5 pages), 16 sources, MLA, AU$ 151.95
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Abstract
The paper explores the portrayal of the feminine gender through grave-goods and the light these grave-goods shed on the culture of a woman and her community. The paper examines three contrasting inhumations, one Saxon, one Anglian and one Kentish, in order to compare and contrast these different cultures and communities. The paper discusses the revelations of contrasting styles of dress, varying roles played by women, such as weavers, wives and mothers and the status afforded to the Anglo-Saxon woman through the fulfilment of these roles.
From the Paper
"In order to consider what is meant here by 'gendered grave-goods', it is first important to consider what is referred to by 'gender'. The term 'gender' is usually differentiated from the term 'sex' in that 'sex relates specifically to the biological, physical characteristics which make a person male or female at birth, whereas gender refers to the behaviours associated with members of that sex.' Sex, then, is defined biologically, and gender, culturally. Crawford says of the grave-goods associated with the pagan Anglo-Saxon inhumation ritual, that '[t]he clearest message conveyed [...] was the sex of the deceased', the sharp contrast between the '[w]eapons, including spears, shields and swords' almost exclusively found in male burials and the jewellery that is associated with female burials serving to highlight the very different types of goods used to symbolise the male and female sexes. Stoodley emphasises the contrast between masculine and feminine symbolism further still in his comment that the jewellery of the female inhumation ritual is not only an indication of the female sex, but is also involved in 'the creation of a feminine gender'."
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Minoan Bull-Leaping, 2007.
An analysis of Minoan bull-leaping as an act of human sacrifice.
1,711 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 9 sources, MLA, AU$ 87.95
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Abstract
This paper argues that bull-leaping was not an intentional act of human sacrifice, but rather a highly prestigious, overtly religious ritual undertaken by the Minoan elite. It describes bull-leaping as depicted in archaeological evidence, explores to what extent the practice could have resembled the artistic depictions of the act and analyses the danger and possibility of performing such a feat. The paper also considers the controversial evidence of "human sacrifice" at the Anemospilia temple; looks at the other violent sports practiced by the Minoans; emphasises the religious significance of bull-leaping and discusses the necessary skill of the bull-leapers themselves.
From the Paper
"That the Minoans practised human sacrifice was a possibility introduced following the grisly findings at the Anemospilia temple. Inside the temple ruins was, as Castleden1 (1990, 168-73) describes, the remains of a young man, with his legs tightly folded up, upon what appears to have been a sacrificial table. A long bronze blade was found beside him. The excavators, Y. Sakellarakis and E. Sapouna-Sakellaraki, proposed that the youth was sacrificed in order to avert the impending earthquake which destroyed the temple. Castleden not only maintains that human sacrifice was performed in this instance, he insists that it would have been an integral religious practise - enacted on many more occasions. He pushes the concept of the Minoans hidden 'shadow side' - mentioning several other examples."
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"The Mummy", 2006.
A critical evaluation of the 1932 classic horror film "The Mummy".
1,292 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper is a review and critical evaluation of the Hollywood movie "The Mummy", about mummies, ancient Egypt and archeology. In particular, it looks at how although it has many factual errors, the movie's non-fictional information about ancient Egyptian practices and history are rather precise.
From the Paper
"The funeral procession in the movie was also very precise in depicting correct ancient Egyptian practices. Royal funerals in ancient Egypt were grandiose affairs that included offering bearers, priests, and mourners. All kinds of food and grave goods were carried by the offering bearers. Priests would be chanting spells and hymns while burning incense. The coffin of the deceased would be pulled on a sled by oxen, and behind the whole procession were the mourners who would be hired to cry loudly and tear their clothes in grief. All of these specific rituals and practices were successfully portrayed in the 1932 classic when Imhotep shows Helen the funeral procession of Ankhsunamun."
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The Difficulties in Archaeological Investigation, 2006.
This paper examines archaeological methods for identifying sites of imperial control in the ancient world.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 1 source, AU$ 83.95
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Abstract
In "Dimensions of Imperial Control: The Vijayanagara Capital," Carla Sinopoli and Kathleen Morrison confront this difficulty in archaeological investigation, attempting a more cautious and evidence-based analysis of the sites of power in and around the capital city of the Vijayanagara empire. They begin their assessment, rightly, with a basic ideological assumption about the nature of archaeology of ancient empires: overarching models that describe imperial control and loci of power that are relatively useless.
From the Paper
"Archaeology can be a frustrating discipline. The scholars who form the ranks of the world's archaeological institutions spend lifetimes sifting through scant clues to reconstruct the intimate details of civilizations long gone. Mistakes are easily made. Evidence is easily misinterpreted. It takes years of pointed training to develop the practical and intellectual skills to draw some meaningful conclusions regarding the characteristics of the ancient world. It's somewhat akin to trying to solve a murder mystery with only the briefest of clues that happened thousands of years prior. (In fact, Bob Brier--a famous Egyptologist--did just that, working to solve what he concluded was the murder of Tutankhamen)."
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Michael S. Nassaney, 2006.
An assessment of "An Epistemological Inquiry into Some Archaeological and Historical Interpretations of 17th Century Nation American-European Relations" by Michael S. Nassaney.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 0 sources, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper assesses Michael S. Nassaney's article, "An Epistemological Inquiry into Some Archaeological and Historical Interpretations of 17th Century Nation American-European Relations" showing that objective interpretations are based on the current society. According to the paper, Nassaney's article discusses the archaeological records of the Narragansett Native American tribe. His thesis states "I will show that 'objective' interpretations of the archaeological record are ideologically charged while serving to empower those with access to the record".
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Huntington's Clash of Civilizations, 2006.
A review of "The Clash of Civilizations and the Making of the World Order" by Samuel Huntington.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 2 sources, AU$ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how in "The Clash of Civilizations and the Making of the World Order", Harvard political scientist Samuel Huntington argues that the modern world should be viewed not as bipolar, or as a collection of nation-states, but as a set of seven or eight cultural civilizations. The paper further discusses how, according to Huntington, these cultural entities are distinct and large enough to be called civilizations, and are fated to interact in terms of their respective civilizational identities, which may lead to a clash of civilizations.
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The Beginning of Civilization, 2006.
This paper looks at what the field of archaeology can tell us about the beginning of civilization.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 3 sources, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
Mesopotamia is a region between the Tigris and Euphrates which rose significantly in terms of urbanization in the Old World. Archaeologists, anthropologists, sociologists and Near Eastern historians have shown us how ceremonial, commercial, and redistributive concepts developed in this region. This paper discusses archaeological perspectives on the beginning of civilization.
From the Paper
"For example, arguments from Paul Wheatley asserted that the ceremonial centers drew people to listen to the religious texts within temples, which primarily began urban generation. Fustel de Coulanges revived the same idea that Wheatley comprised. In essence, ceremonial centers were definitely established before obtaining economical roles, which took centuries later. Religion provided the authority to bring forth agricultural goods or other resources (Wieroop 24)."
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Eratosthenes and Measurement, 2006.
A biographical account of the life of Greek scholar Eratosthenes and his many contributions to the sciences.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 3 sources, AU$ 83.95
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Abstract
This six page paper looks closely at the ancient and historical figure of Eratosthenes, who died around 195 BC. He made many significant contributions to the fields of science, mathematics, astronomy, geography, and many others. His discovery of the diameter of the earth has been proven to be highly accurate today. As thus, his work is of lasting importance.
From the Paper
"Eratosthenes, a Greek scholar from about 276-195 B.C, is remembered chiefly for his scientific measurements of the earth's circumference. His work, albeit somewhat unacknowledged by his contemporaries, resulted in fantastic scientific experiments which are comparably accurate even today. By looking briefly at his biography, and then the results of his experiments, Eratosthenes will be shown to be both a highly important as well as a highly innovative thinker of his age, regardless of how he was considered at the time of his life work. Born in North Africa, Cyrene, Eratosthenes spent much of his educational time in Athens. In Athens he received the education..."
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Carneiro's Coercive Theory, 2006.
This paper examines the Carneiro's anthropological theories of South American archaeology in light of David J. Wilson's recent additions to his research.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 2 sources, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the necessity of ongoing research as a tool for building knowledge in all scientific fields. The example of Carneiro's anthropological theories from the 1970's is used in light of new research in the field by David J. Wilson. Wilson's methods of testing previously held theories and building on them is highlighted.
From the Paper
"Carneiro's Coercive Theory: In any of the sciences, previously published and discussed theories are important for the continuation of growth and discovery within the field of study. In the social science of anthropology, this manner of building upon previous scholarship is no different than in any other science. Previously held theories are reviewed with and applied to current studies by current anthropologists. One recent example of this can be found in the work of David J. Wilson as he studied archaeology in South America. Wilson tested the hypotheses that were laid out by 1970s American anthropologist Robert Carneiro. This paper shall deal with how Wilson's work related to and built upon Carneiro's Coercive Theory, first defining and laying out just what this theory is, and then studying how Wilson's work added to scientific thought by using said theory. In the 1970s, anthropologist Robert Carneiro was investigating..."
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Archaeology, 2005.
A discussion on archaeology and their interpretations of history.
3,375 words (approx. 13.5 pages), 10 sources, AU$ 210.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the relationships between archaeologists and the descendants of those they study, particularly in the North American southwest desert. The paper specifically looks at the Anasazi and their Hopi and Zuni descendants and the differences between the archaeologists' interpretation of history and that of the native people. The paper also looks at the role of Pan-Indian identity and ethnicity.
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Greek Krater, 2005.
An analysis of the Greek vase or bowl, the krater.
1,800 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 6 sources, AU$ 111.95
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Abstract
The paper describes and discusses a Greek krater. A krater is an ancient Greek vase or bowl. The paper looks at how kraters were originally used for mixing wine with water at banquets and describes its specific style. The paper introduces the geometric style Krater with an example in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. It also analyzes how the geometric style evolved and the issues with dating these works.
From the Paper
"A krater is a Greek vase or bowl. It has a wide mouth, handles on either side, and a foot on which it stands. These bowls were used to mix wine with water at banquets in ancient Greece. These vases are often adorned with scenes from Greek mythology or scenes of banquets like the one at which the krater would be used. Many of the kraters found in Greece reflect what is called the geometric style, an example of which is the Terracotta Krater, ca. 750-735 B.C., found today in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The geometric style this krater represents is an early form that evolved into more advanced forms of Greek vase painting, and dating such works can be an issue because the geometric style often persisted beyond its early date and so co-existed with more advanced styles."
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