Join anthropologist/classical archaeologist David Soren in a survey of the art and archaeology of ancient Rome. This course will highlight the major wonders of the Roman world from the 8th century B.C. to the 6th century A.D., including the historical truth behind Rome’s alleged founders Romulus and Remus, the frightening demonology of the Etruscans, the remarkable seven-terraced sanctuary of Praeneste, and the unique construction of the Pantheon. Dr. Soren has recently been assigned to direct a miniseries on ancient Rome, and he will discuss highlights of his project throughout Italy. The course will proceed chronologically from the founding of Rome through the Roman Republic and Empire, and will also explore the latest evidence regarding the fall of the Roman Empire, including his own work on the role played by Plasmodium falciparum malaria and the new University of Arizona research into ancient climate change and what has been termed the decennial decimations.
