Understanding History Through Art

One of the most natural ways to teach ancient history is through the visual arts. The material comes alive for students of all abilities because they can "see" what they are learning about. The use of primary sources greatly enriches their knowledge of culture and enhances their aesthetic and perceptual skills. Because the majority of people during ancient times were "pre-literate" there is a wealth of artistic imagery from ancient civilizations from which to draw.

Here are a few curriculum units that I have developed as a participant in the U.S.Department Fulbright-Hays Summer Seminars Abroad program and at U.C. Berkeley's ORIAS seminars.

              "To the Ends of the Earth:  the Artistic Legacy of Alexander the Great"

             "The Imperial Examination:  Tang & Song Dynasty Scroll Project"

             "Mithila Painting - Folk Art of India/Focus on The Ramayana"

             "Why is Krishna Blue? - Understanding the Iconography of Hindu Gods & Goddesses" 

              "The Epic of Gilgamesh" - an integrated unit

With guidance and support from the Department of Southeast Asian Studies & ORIAS, UC Berkeley, I created a curriculum unit/simulation on the ancient Spice Trade during the Roman era:


                  "Monsoon Winds to the Land of Gold"