With a focus on the archaeology of the Eurasian steppe, this module explores the emergence and transformation of steppe pastoralist societies from their origins in complex hunter-gatherer communities to the formation of the first ‘nomadic’ empires. It represents a rare opportunity to encounter the extraordinary archaeological record of Siberia and Central Asia and to focus upon societies whose contribution to global culture has been routinely dismissed in both Euro- and Sino-centric stories of ‘civilisation’.
A combination of taught lectures and student-led seminars, the course will introduce to key concepts and general trajectories, whilst encouraging discussion of broad theoretical ideas and specific archaeological evidence.
Throughout the course, you will investigate critically the changing relationships between steppe societies and their neighbours and explore the transformative role played by pastoralist peoples in conflicts, communication and the rise of the Silk Roads.
The module is specifically designed as a broad entry point for students whose primary interests lie in the prehistoric archaeology and ancient history of Europe, Western Asia or China and it will also provide valuable baseline for those going on to study later periods of Eurasian history.