People of the Sun: The Archaeology of Ancient Mexico

ANTHRO 1182 Subject & Catalog Number

Description

Anthropology 1182 is designed to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of human ecology, social practices, and the role of religion in the extraordinary achievements of the People of the Sun, in Central Highland Mexico, a vibrant region of the ancient world. We will examine the interplay between forces promoting sociopolitical change and economic innovations that led to urban life, including vital input from other parts of Mesoamerica. The varied learning experiences in this course enable an in-depth exploration of the origins and legacy of the Aztec Empire and their predecessors, the Toltecs  ("Mastercraftsmen"). That legacy lives on and is central to contemporary Mexican identity, lifeways, and cultural practices. We'll explore their predecessors at the earlier, initial urban empire of Teotihuacan ("City of the Gods") that preceded and inspired the Toltecs. Other key players in the master narrative include the even earlier Zapotecs of Monte Alban, Oaxaca; the most ancient Maya of Aguada Fénix and El Mirador; and the precocious Olmecas of Veracruz and Tabasco.

Students will begin by tracing how those contributions were enabled by the achievements of early horticulturalists and the development of agriculture; life in early villages; the rise of craft production and regional exchange networks; the appearance of temples, towns, social hierarchy and urban life. All were pre-requisites for the emergence of states and empires in Highland Mexico. The final course discussions focus on the persistence and resilience of indigenous lifeways and belief systems and the role of cultural hybridity through the Conquest and Colonial periods, 19th century Independence and the Republican period, the 20th century Revolution and up to the contemporary scene. The Peabody Museum's remarkable collections are incorporated into class discussions and research. Students will be encouraged to contribute their own interests and relevant aspects of their background to class discussions and to the direction of our inquiries. Both undergraduate and graduate students are welcome. Undergraduate students, please note that this course counts toward the fulfillment of the Ethnicity, Migration, Rights Secondary Field.