Anglo-Israel Archaeological Society (AIAS) presents a new online learning opportunity:
The Archaeology of Ancient Israel: a view from Mesopotamia
Anglo-Israel Archaeological Society (AIAS) is pleased to introduce a new online course led by AIAS Trustee, Paul Collins, Keeper of the Department of Middle East at the British Museum.
This introductory course is the first of its kind from AIAS and will cover a fascinating journey through the history and archaeology of ancient Israel in the first millennium BCE, with a focus on the influences and connections between the region and Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq and eastern Syria).
Drawing on objects from the British Museum and other leading collections, the course will serve as a primer for those interested in the history and archaeology of the ancient Middle East and will work to further The Society’s mission to raise awareness of the rich and fascinating archaeology of the region.
Across four online sessions participants will explore over 1,000 years of history in the region from the Bronze Age through to the Persian and Hellenistic World:
1. From Bronze Age Collapse to New Beginnings (c. 1200–725 BCE)
Around 1200 BCE, the great Bronze Age civilizations of the eastern Mediterranean collapsed. The breakdown of Canaanite city-states allowed for new identities and imperial powers to emerge.
2. The empires of Assyria and Babylonia (c. 725–540 BCE)
The Assyrian empire dominated the Middle East; it would be inherited by Babylon. Key historical moments revealed by art and archaeology include the siege of Lachish and the destruction of Jerusalem.
3. Persian, and Hellenistic Worlds (c. 540–50 BCE)
New imperial policies allowed displaced communities to return home and rebuild. Resistance to the Seleucid empire led to the Maccabean Revolt and the establishment of a dynamic Hasmonean kingdom.
4. Rome and Transformation (c. 50 BCE – 500 CE)
Roman power reshaped the region under Herod the Great followed by the destruction of Jerusalem and the Second Temple in 70 CE. Judaism adapted to life without the Temple and Christianity emerged.
Suggested reading and bibliography will be provided ahead of each session.
AIAS Chairperson, Professor Sarah Pearce, said: “We are delighted to offer a new avenue for learning about the rich and diverse history of ancient Israel for the very first time. This new format is the perfect partner to our existing programme of fascinating lectures and events with renowned academics from across the world, all of which are well attended by our wonderful members. We look forward to welcoming members and non-members alike from April.”
Founded in 1961 by Professor Yigal Yadin, Dr Alec Lerner, Leon Shalit and Dr Richard Barnett, AIAS supports and raises awareness of research and excavation in the Middle East. The Society runs a busy programme of lectures and events, and grants to help students of Middle Eastern archaeology develop their careers. AIAS is a non-political charitable organisation.
This course is available for both AIAS members and non-members. AIAS is pleased to offer existing members a 50 per cent reduction on the course fee, meaning members can access all four sessions for £50.
Course Details
Course dates
The archaeology of Ancient Israel: a view from Mesopotamia sessions will be held weekly online via Zoom from Tuesday 28 April – Tuesday 19 May
Course fees
AIAS members and non-members are welcomes to join the course.
· AIAS Members: £50
· Non-Members: £100
Annual Membership for AIAS starts from £30. Please get in touch if you would like to become an AIAS Member.
Course registration
To register, please contact Ev****@******rg.uk