In this class, we will survey the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica they have been documented through archaeological and anthropological research. The course covers studies of the earliest inhabitants of the Americas, and explores the Olmec, Maya, Toltec, Aztec, and more, with emphasis on the Maya civilizations of Guatemala, Belize, and Mexico.

We will also use historical evidence as a guide to understanding "daily life" among these groups. This includes explorations into foodways and folklore, particularly within the Yucatan peninsula.

Students who enroll will learn how to read Maya hieroglyphs, speak basic conversational Yucatec Maya, and practice creating the tool technologies of the earliest Americans.

Required Books for Spring 2012:

• Evans, Susan Toby. Ancient Mexico and Central America: Archaeology and Culture History (2nd Edition).
  ISBN 978-0500287149
• Olmec: Colossal Masterworks of Ancient Mexico. deYoung Museum/Yale University Press.

If you would like a preview of the other types of materials we use in the course, please explore below!

• ArtStor
• "Coming to America" (Clovis film)-- Watch online!
• Mesoamerican Ballgame: www.ballgame.org
• Cracking the Maya Code
• Field Museum exhibit, "The Aztec World"