Department of Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies,
Pennsylvania State University
Ancient Egypt stands as one of history’s most complex and enduring civilizations, offering an unparalleled case study in the dynamics of complex society. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Egyptian civilization from its prehistoric origins through the Ptolemaic period, examining the rise of monarchy and civil administration, the invention and function of writing, the development of civic religion, and the mechanics of imperial expansion and collapse. Students will engage with primary sources, monumental architecture, and archaeological evidence to trace Egypt’s evolving relationships with neighboring civilizations, including the Mycenaeans, Hittites, Nubians, and Persians. Beyond Egypt itself, the course situates this remarkable civilization within broader Mediterranean and Near Eastern economic and political networks. Through close reading, virtual site exploration, and critical analysis, students will develop essential skills in historical thinking while gaining deep insight into the foundations of complex human society.