Myth and Cult in the Ancient Near East

Subject 107-272 (2008)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2008.Search for this in the current handbookSearch for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.500
Level: Undergraduate
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Semester 2, - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable


Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Total Time Commitment: Not available
Prerequisites: None
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

Coordinator

Prof Antonio Sagona
Subject Overview:

This subject will introduce the myths and cults of Mesopotamia and neighbouring lands, including Egypt, through an examination of literature and material culture. Attention will be paid to key issues and themes, which remained current and problematic in the ancient Near Eastern mind, including the order of the universe and humanity's role in it, the transcendent or sacred, the creation, and death and the afterlife. The subject also focuses on how these views were expressed in formailsed symbolic behaviour. On completion of this subject students should have an understanding of the Near Eastern frame of mind through myths and rituals; have assessed critically the relevant literary and material evidence; and have shown an understanding of the major and scholarly approaches to the subject matter.

Assessment: A class paper and follow up essay of 2500 words 60% (10% presentation, 50% essay, due during semester), and a take-home exam of 1500 words 40% (due in the examination period).
Prescribed Texts: Prescribed Texts:A subject reader will be available from the Bookroom at the beginning of semester
Breadth Options: This subject is a level 2 or level 3 subject and is not available to new generation degree students as a breadth option in 2008.
This subject or an equivalent will be available as breadth in the future.
Breadth subjects are currently being developed and these existing subject details can be used as guide to the type of options that might be available.
2009 subjects to be offered as breadth will be finalised before re-enrolment for 2009 starts in early October.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

  • be skilled in critical thinking and analysis;

  • possess effective written communication skills;

  • have an understanding of social, ethical and cultural context.
Related Course(s): Bachelor of Arts
Diploma in Arts (Classical Studies)

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