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The Story of Man, 2006.
A discussion regarding the origins of man.
2,263 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the supposed origins of man. According to the paper, studies and archaeological evidence show that man first lived in South Africa. The paper goes on to discuss evidence that proves that the remains found there are of humans rather than animals. The paper further discusses evolution.
From the Paper
"So we know these African fossils were human, because they had certain body characteristics that other animals do not have. They had a triangular foot, which allowed them to walk long distances upright on two feet. They had a truly opposable thumb which allowed them to develop fine more skills. Their shoulder, knee and hip joints showed adaptations for walking, slightly different from other hominids (human like animals). Their skulls had a larger space for a brain and the patterns inside the skull bones showed more development of the frontal lobe, the one we use for thinking. Finally their teeth were a variety that allowed them to eat all kinds of food. They had sharp teeth for cutting meat and vegetables, double pointed teeth for tearing and large grinding teeth for mashing up seeds and plants."
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Curation Crisis in Archaeology, 2007.
This paper explores the current crisis in American archaeological curation.
2,057 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper examines current issues in archaeology, most specifically the problems in American curation. The author describes the emphasis archaeology places on excavation, yet cites the lack of resources allocated for maintaining artifacts. The author further highlights the problems with storage facilities, conservation of artifacts, and making finds available to the public. The paper concludes stating that the curation crisis is the product of poor planning, idealization of field work versus curation work, and a zealous but misguided approach to archeology as a whole
From the Paper
"Entire collections of artifacts across the country are simply vanishing or being hidden away so deeply that they are forgotten about completely, not to mention being stored in substandard conditions that do not preserve them for posterity. Items such as soil samples and bits of charcoal offer a wealth of information, however because they do not have any commercial value on the antiquities market, they are treated as if they are in fact worthless. Unfortunately, archaeological sites are becoming more rare, and as the availability of new artifacts lessens, it becomes even more important to care for the artifacts that have already been unearthed and continue having them available for further research. ("A Curation Crisis") The San Diego Archeological Center defines curation as the care, management, and use of archeological collections. "Care means that you prevent deterioration, management means that collections are organized and accessible, and use means that you use collections for scientific research, public education or cultural use." (San Diego) Curation is a matter of respect for the cultures from which collections have been obtained, as well as respect for the educational value of these artifacts for today and tomorrow, not to mention respect for the amount of work and money that has been invested in these collections. However, this respect is not currently an inherent part of the archaeological or curation process, and while steps are being taken towards improving the current conditions, a new approach must be taken in order to prevent further deterioration of collections and eventually fix the problem."
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Archaeology, 2006.
A discussion of the importance of archaeological discoveries to the understanding of history.
2,157 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the benefits of archaeology to the scientific and academic communities, as well as its ability to question previous historical paradigms related to the earliest dates of settlement in a given region, or the evolution and migration of early hominids. The paper gives some examples of famous archaeological finds, discussing in particular, the Kennewick Man and the effects that its discovery has had on our previous knowledge of history.
From the Paper
"The Kennewick Man is one of the most notable finds in recent archaeological history. Discovered in Washington State by casual passers-by in 1996, the Kennewick Man's remains epitomize the controversy over NAGPRA. At first believed to be the remains of a Caucasian male who might have looked "like Patrick Stewart," the Kennewick Man called into question the theory that the first inhabitants of North America were Mongoloid peoples who traversed the Bering Strait (Miller 1997). Since then, the Kennewick Man has also become a political prisoner, in the middle of the battle between repatriation and scientific enquiry."
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The James Ossuary, 2006.
This paper discusses the James Ossuary and the question of its authenticity.
775 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that an ossuary is a bone box, which is often used for the purposes of reburial; the James Ossuary, which was found in 2002, bore the inscription "James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus". The author points out that, from the beginning, there was a great deal of controversy surrounding the discovery of this particular ossuary especially the fact that the James ossuary was not found by qualified archaeologists. The paper concludes that, while it was from the first century, the inscription on the ossuary was a forgery.
From the Paper
"The author [of "Jesus and the Ossuaries"] explains that, since the James ossuary was not found by archaeologists in a properly controlled environment and because of the historic inscription that it bore, there was a great deal of skepticism surrounding its authenticity. The author asserts that initially examinations of the ossuary by epigraphers, geologists, linguists and paleographers, found that the ossuary itself was probably an authentic first century artifact. In addition, they concluded that the inscription was also first century Aramaic."
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The Future of Archaeology, 2006.
This paper discusses the future of the field of archaeology.
1,928 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer describes the different modern technologies that are utilized by archaeologists. The writer discusses how such technologies affect the historical values of the artifacts discovered.
In this paper the writer determines the impact of the technologies on the future of archaeology. Further, the writer discusses the various advantages and disadvantages of modern technologies in the field of archaeology.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Background of the Study
Presentation
Excavation and Research
Restoration
Preservation
Discussion
Statement of the Problem
Significance of the Study
Objectives
Scope and Limitation
Participants
Research Design
Methodology and Research Instrument
Statistical Treatment
Data Presentation and Analysis
Conclusion
References
From the Paper
"Archaeology is a difficult profession. Archaeologists must do constant and thorough research on the subject matter to ensure discovery of real artifacts. In this regard, modern archaeology is now utilizing different methods and strategies in excavation, research, restoration and preservation that are necessary for the development and improvement of archaeology. These methods also include the application of modern technologies such as computers, modern gadgets that are capable of enhancing imagery of the artifacts and equipment that are capable of capturing the uniqueness and richness of the archaeological artifacts discovered.
The future of archaeology will, in any manner possible, continue to be affected by the evolution of modern technologies. Their effects may either be positive or negative."
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The Sphinx, 2006.
An examination on the origin and meaning of the Sphinx.
1,142 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
The paper describes how in Greek mythology there is only one sphinx, in Egyptian mythology there are many sphinxes, but the symbolic representation of the sphinx in both these mythologies is completely the opposite. The paper analyzes how the Greeks wanted to bring awareness to the people that women were symbols of destruction and therefore should not be given a voice, suppressing the voice of the woman. The paper further discusses how the Egyptians did not associate the sphinx with destruction and for them it was a symbol of protection, they used the image of the sun god and then there are others who say that the Great Sphinx of Egypt was just a portrait of the pharaoh. The paper concludes that hybridization of a human face with an animal's body also represents that the human intellect can control raw power and use it for its benefits.
From the Paper
"The faces of their sphinxes were the faces of their kings and thus it showed the king as being invincible and wise. The function of the Sphinx in Egypt is a hotly debated topic. In Egypt lions were also figures of guardianship and thus some claim the sphinx to be built to guard the Giza plateau. Others hold on to the much common theory that the sphinx had the face of the pharaoh Khafre and thus was his portrait. Yet there are others who say that because the lion was a symbol of the sun therefore they relate the sphinx with some solar cult. Ra was the Egyptian sun god who had a son called Horus."
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Fossils, 2006.
A discussion on fossils from the Pre-Cambrian period.
794 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
This study discusses the Pre-Cambrian Period, roughly some two billion years ago, and in particular, fossils that have been found from that time period. The paper discusses three types of fossils that have been left behind -- body, trace and chemical and that these can be readily found within rocks formed during the Archaean and Proterozoic Periods.
From the Paper
"During this time, a number of life forms emerged and left behind three types of fossils--body, trace and chemical, which can be readily found within rocks formed during the Archaean and Proterozoic Periods. Some of these fossils are actual cellular remains, something which Donovan admits is extremely rare in rocks of this age. The oldest have been dated as about 3.5 billion years and can be found in cherts from the Warrawoona Group near the North Pole, being northwest of Australia, and in the Onverwacht Group in eastern Transvaal (South Africa)."
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Mayan Culture, 2006.
An overview of the history and culture of the Mayan Empire.
975 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper explores the cultural accomplishments and legacy of the Mayan Empire. The paper demonstrates how their system of higher mathematics and geometry allowed them to build palaces, public buildings, athletic arenas, monuments, pyramids, pottery, jewelry and other various art forms, all without the benefits of modern technology. The paper also examines the archaeological evidence left behind by the Mayan Empire, discussing their creation of whole cities based on stone technology, as well as discovered artifacts that demonstrate the Mayan's culture and cleverness. The paper concludes with a discussion of the legacy of the Mayan Empire and the continuing Mayan cultural presence in Latin America today.
From the Paper
"The Mayans kept time with a combination of several cycles that converged and marked the movement of the sun, the moon, and Venus. Archeologists believe the Mayans began to keep track of time on August 31, 3114 BC. The year 3114 BC is called the zero year and is comparable to January 1, 0000 AD. The Mayan calendar records time in 400 year cycles, which means that 13 cycles of 400 years will have passed before the next cycle begins on December 27, 2012 (1-0-0-0-0 in Mayan time). The Mayans realized there were cycles in the Cosmos. From this astronomical realization came instruments for reckoning time and a calendar that accurately measures the solar year to within minutes."
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Prehistoric African Development, 2006.
This in-depth paper analyzes the prehistoric development of the African continent while focusing primarily on the development and evolution of man in this particular region.
2,925 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the published archaeological evidence and research that proves humans lived in Africa more than 3 million years ago. The writer of this paper traces the origins of the first humans in prehistoric Africa to the grassland regions in the east. The writer delves into the prehistoric cultures of Africa while also discussing the cultural and linguistic evidence that shows that certain societies such as the Bantus and Zulus came from the north and migrated southwestward to set up their own communities. This paper explores the development that occurred during the late Stone Age era which brought about additional settled societies throughout the continent. This paper analyzes the manner in which prehistoric cultures and societies functioned in Africa. The writer stresses that during the evolution of man evidence of specialized tools were found to have been created to cope with a new range of environments and circumstances which are clearly detailed in this paper. The writer also examines how the issue of gender was viewed during the prehistoric era. The writer contends it was likely that the traditional division of labor was evident during this particular era in which men hunted while women defended the camp and cared for the family.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Analysis
Conclusion
References
From the Paper
"Part of the reasons, for some of the methods adopted, were geographic in origin. At the same time, the country is now broken up in 50 different countries and there is a wide difference in sizes among them, both in terms of area as also in terms of population. At the same time, the continent is huge enough to contain United States, China, India and Argentina together. The diversity and difference from other continents is sustained by the fact that it is bisected by the equator. There are many different types of lands, but the greatest portion of it is either desert or open plains. The continent also has snow capped mountains in Mt. Kenya and Mt. Kilimanjaro. The continent also has four different river systems of the Nile, Niger, Congo or Zaire and Zambezi. As was the situation in other world regions, human development in Africa also first took place in areas where there was good availability of natural resources in the form of soils and required water supply."
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European Archeology, 2006.
An analysis of the origins and development of Europe's archeology.
1,651 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how the prehistoric human background of Europe began tens of thousands of years ago in the latter part of the Stone Age. It looks at how ancient man, beginning roughly during the Upper Paleolithic Period, circa 32,000 B.C.E., evolved from a primitive and animal-like being into one that could construct and use tools, build shelters and create early forms of societal structures that eventually led to the rise of towns and cities along the rivers and coastlines of ancient Europe.
From the Paper
"The Stone Age is usually divided into the Paleolithic ("Old Stone") and Neolithic "New Stone") Ages; the end of the Paleolithic and the beginning of the Neolithic is thus placed about ten to twelve thousand years ago. During the long Paleolithic Period, human beings roamed throughout Europe, searching for food as hunter-gatherers, and often migrated great distances in order to follow large game animals or locate more abundant sources of wild plants. At least as early as 50,000 years ago, the type of Paleolithic human beings known as Neanderthals, named from the remains found in the Neanderthal Valley in Germany, spread over Macedonia and then into Greece as far south as the Peloponnese peninsula."
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'The Kritios Boy', 2006.
Examines the Hellenistic sculpture known as 'The Kritios Boy.'
1,533 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses a sculpture from the Hellenistic period of Greek art called the "Kritios Boy" (artist unknown), which was discovered in the late 1800s by archaeologists in the ruins of the Greek Acropolis in Athens. The paper examines how this statue represents Greek culture, especially the Hellenistic period, in a variety of ways and styles.
From the Paper
"This sculpture clearly illustrates how Hellenistic culture was evolving and changing. The statue includes movement, which makes it a more natural and realistic rendition of people and life of the time. Rather than appearing stylized and even overly rigid, this figure seems as if it could easily come to life, and that represents a great change in style and purpose of Greek sculpture."
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The Peloponnesian War, 2006.
A historical review of the Peloponnesian War and its lasting implications.
1,678 words (approx. 6.7 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 54.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses and evaluates the Peloponnesian War through an examination of the individuals involved in the war, the circumstances surrounding the war, the culture of the time and the legend of the war.
From the Paper
"Although Athens was on a course of reconstruction and economic development the between Sparta and Athens began to deteriorate. In a rather small war between Corcyra (supported by Sparta) and Corinth (supported by Athens), Athens became subjected to a Spartan siege or a participant in the great Peloponnesian War or wars from 431BC to 404BC. Not only was Athens under continual attack from Sparta but also in 430BC Athens was beset with a plague that lasted several years and consumed almost 25% of the Athenian population. However, even with the plague Sparta was unable to pierce the defensive walls of Athens that linked Athens to Piraeus and as such foodstuffs managed to be brought into the beleaguered city Warner, 1954). As a sidebar note, and absent of any recorded historical evidence, the plague that nearly crushed Athens was thought to be the work of the Spartans - by catapulting their own plague afflicted soldiers over the walls into Athens. In an attempt to rid their city-state area of Spartans Athens sent an enormous army of soldiers (415BC) against the Spartans. As a direct loss of the in the battlefield Athens suffered political uncertainty and in 411BC democracy was officially dismantled and the system was replaced by a council of 400 men who attempted to assert control over all Athens."
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The Disappearance of the Mayan Civilization, 2006.
This paper examines the numerous cultural attributes of the Mayan civilization while focusing on the reasons for its eventual collapse and disappearance.
740 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the disappearance of the Mayan civilization while focusing on the various theories surrounding its eventual collapse. The writer of this brief yet concise paper details the history of the Mayan culture which emerged in 2000 BC. The Mayan civilization gave birth to numerous cultural progresses such as the establishment of a writing system, an organized political council as well as the introduction of organized religion. This paper examines the theories surrounding the dispersal of the Mayan civilization, when at around 800 AD it was purported to have suddenly collapsed. There have been numerous arguments based on archaeological and anthropological evidence that attempted to explain the collapse of this particular civilization. This paper focuses on several theories which may explain the disappearance of the Mayan people which include climatic changes as well as socio-cultural collapse through the population's expansion.
From the Paper
"The theory that argued that a climatic collapse led to the disappearance of the Mayan civilization was based from scientific findings that were caused by a severe drought. As reported by History Today, "[d]rilling samples from the Cariaco Basin off the Venezuelan Coast show there were intensely dry periods between AD 810 and AD 910..." From this finding, it was found that because there had been scarce supply of the people's basic needs, such as water and food supply, Mayan society disappeared, supposedly due to deaths caused by these series of drought. A more specific version of this theory was presented in Kerr's journal article on the scientific evidence pointing at climate changes as the catalyst towards the disappearance of the civilization."
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Imhotep, 2005.
Examines the vast influence that this talented royal advisor had on Ancient Egypt.
1,874 words (approx. 7.5 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
Imhotep was a royal advisor, architect, priest, astrologist, sculptor, poet, sage, engineer, city planner and physician, among many other talents. This paper examines Imhotep's contributions to the development of Ancient Egypt in the fields of architecture, medicine, irrigation and philosophy.
From the Paper
"Referred to as "the archetype of the perfect man of learning" (IKOS) with good reason, the list of official titles given to him are numerous and impressive. Found inscribed onto a statue of Djoser, Pharaoh Netjerykhet, Imhotep is identified as a vizier, "Overseer of the Seers," "First for the King," "Director of Public Works in Upper and Lower Egypt," "Keeper of the Seals of Lower Egypt," "Recorder of the Annals," "and "Supervisor of the Great Palace." (Silverman, 178) As an architect and builder, he made a world-changing innovation by building with stone rather than mud bricks, ensuring the longevity of the Egyptian legacy. His construction of the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, the first Pyramid ever constructed, earned him a unique place in history as the first architect with a recorded name."
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Religion During the Chalcolithic Era, 2007.
Examines what the archaeological evidence tell us about religion and cult practices in Palestine during the Chalcolithic Era.
2,368 words (approx. 9.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper shows that archaeological evidence such as cult-based figurines, ossuaries, buildings and structures and the contexts in which they were found demonstrate the religion and cult practices of the Chalcolithic Era in Palestine. The paper examines several of these findings, including the sites of Teleilat Ghassul and Ein Gedi.
From the Paper
"Several of the chalcolithic sites excavated after the 1920's, in which the chalcolithic era was first recognised , are indicative of cult worship and religion, and one of these sites includes Teleilat Ghassul, the first of the period to be excavated . Originally thought to be several settlements because of its scattered mounds indicating settlements , it is now thought by most scholars including Hennessey to be a single, 20 ha site with a religious culture that spread to other settlements in the Palestine region".
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Atlantis - Dream or Destiny?, 2006.
A paper discussing the long-assumed fictional island of Atlantis and whether or not the island actually existed at one time.
1,660 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper explores evidence suggesting that the island of Atlantis, long thought to be a fictional island paradise, may actually have existed at one time. The paper discusses the discoveries of famous explorers of the past and more recent archaeological discoveries in Egypt that all support the idea that the island of Atlantis did indeed once exist.
From the Paper
"Deep in thought, the man leans back in the klismo, shifting his weight and rubbing the small of his back. Although cushioned with fleece and animal skins, the heavy wooden chair is still hard on old bones. At a slight movement to his right, sensed more than seen, he reaches out his hand to steady the tall, thin vase his motions have disturbed. He absently pushes the fragile blue pottery closer to the window and away from the small table and chair. Shafts of late afternoon sunshine stream through the open window, bathing the piece in gold. On any other day, the man might pause to ponder and appreciate the exquisite beauty of this mixture of nature and man's handiwork. This day, however, the moment passes unnoticed. This day the man's thoughts are still at the noisy afternoon agora. The need for basic necessities had drawn him to the market, but it was the conversation which had kept him on the square most of the day. Through the years he had witnessed much strife and conflict as his city and his country fell into disorder and decay. But never had he seen such a cloak of dark despair as the one presently falling over his beloved Athens."
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"The Mummies of Urumchi", 2006.
A review of the book "The Mummies of Urumchi", by Elizabeth Wayland Barber.
1,593 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
The paper describes the finding of mummified bodies near Loulan, on the eastern edge of the Tarim Basin in China. The writer explains that originally the mummies were thought to be connected to Chinese history, however, they had many features of western people and are now thought to be from central Europe. The paper explains that some of Urumchi's mummies date almost 4,000 years old and that they are preserved more beautifully than Egyptian mummies. The writer concludes by explaining that the main theme of Barber's book is to explain that the mummies, even though found in Chinese territory, really belong to the west.
From the Paper
"The mummies were found to be buried in the desert area and probably in winter season due to which it froze or got very cold and dried out before they could start rotting. When the summer season started, the bodies were already changed into the form of mummies. As the bodies were already dried, the summer's heat could cause any harm of deformation.
"These bodies were placed in coffins lacking any bottom which facilitate air to circulate well this allow the bodies to dry out completely, only few of them, found in nearby locality, were most probably buried in summer season, turned them into skeletons. The highly salty desert accelerated the drying out process, as the salt absorbs the moisture.
"The Urumchi mummies include Cherchen Man, his wife, two other women, and a baby girl wrapped in a beautiful brown cloth tied with red and blue ribbons. The infant was buried with a nursing bottle made from a sheep's udder and his both eyes were covered with a blue stones.
"Mummies found in Qawrighul, a little away form the place where Urmchi mummies were found includes the Beauty of Loulan and a few other mummies, among them was an eight-year-old boy covered with a patterned woolen cloth but his both eyes were covered with bone pegs. The cloth covering the Loulan body seems to be considerably less colorful may be the time factor, might faded its beauty, but even then its impressive in its patterns and weaves, it is knitted."
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Greek Mythology, 2006.
Discusses why the Greeks were such devoted believers in their gods.
2,529 words (approx. 10.1 pages), 9 sources, MLA, $ 76.95
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Abstract
The Greeks were innovators in philosophy, mathematics and medicine, not to mention writing and the theater. The paper questions why, with such seemingly advanced knowledge - even at a time when there already was at least one monotheistic religion (Judaism) prevalent - did the Greeks continue to worship and believe in various gods, prophecies, witches and sorcerers and the inevitable interrelationship among them all with humans? The paper provides an overview of the main gods in Greek mythology.
From the Paper
"Mount Olympus, which would be home to the gods, was then constructed with twelve golden thrones for Zeus, his brothers and sisters, his children and Aphrodite, goddess of love. A quick overview of these various gods and goddesses reveals that Hera, often referred to as the queen of the gods, had a very dark side to her, immensely jealous of Zeus' power, and especially his dalliance with mortal women. He punished her from time to time, but they managed to co-exist."
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