This course explores the civilizations of the ancient world, including the complex balance between the individual and the community, how the ancients understood their gods, and more.

Things you need to know

Here’s a breakdown of the course and how this site works, with links to the relevant pages.

You can also browse through the course website by using the navigation arrows to the left and right of the page image above; the site menu at the top right of every page; or the site map , also linked at the top right of every page. Return to this page by clicking on the home icon , or choosing “Overview” from the site menu.

Announcements and updates will be posted on the Announcements page.

Exam Review Sheet posted Apr 29

Important notes on the Images Essay (due May 12) Apr 27

Welcome to Week 13! Apr 27

Notes and reminders about the Clouds essay (due April 28) Apr 19

Three books are required for this course.

There is a textbook and two additional books.

Our class meetings are twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.

These meetings are in person in Carman Hall room 209.
Students are expected to come to each class having done the readings listed on the Schedule page.

Your grade for this course will come from:

weekly quizzes at the start of some class meetings;
three short essays; and
two exams (a midterm and a final).
Students can monitor their progress on the My Grades page.

This website is the syllabus for this course.

Participation in this course includes adherence to the policies and expectations in this syllabus, including rules on assignments and attendance, academic integrity, and essay format and structure.

Helpful resources here on this site include:

maps and timelines;
quiz notes;
guidance on citations and sources;
lecture and assignment videos;
slides for each class meeting;
a step-by-step guide to writing an essay;
an index of ancient texts online;
Word and Google Docs essay templates;
image galleries;
and more.

PDF versions exist for most pages—look for the PDF icon at the top right of any page.

If you want a PDF version of the full syllabus to reference or print, click here or go to the Print/PDF page.
There’s also a site map to help you find what you need.

Questions?

Email me with any questions, concerns, curiosities, or ideas at mark.wilson@lehman.cuny.edu.
Or come to my office hours, which are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 to 5:45 in Carman Hall room 292.

Quick Links: Announcements Books Grading Schedule Responses Essays Resources Site map

Civilizations of the Ancient World Prof. Mark Wilson • Spring 2025

Welcome to the course. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Things you need to know

Civilizations of the Ancient World

Prof. Mark Wilson • Spring 2025