J-Term

Course Information

GENERAL 643-1 Mundo Maya: The Mayan Civilization of Mexico's Yucatan, 4 credits (Erik Kulke)

This course will examine some of the latest developments in the study of the Mayan culture of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.  We will discuss topics ranging from astronomy and religion to literature and architecture, spending several days on campus in preparation for our on-site visits to several of the more prominent (and a few of the lesser known) archeological zones and museums of the region.  Using a text by Michael Coe (The Mayas), and supplemented by excerpted readings from additional historical and current documents, we will investigate and celebrate the achievements of this magnificent civilization, from its rise to prominence to its mysterious decline.

Students wishing to receive Spanish credits for this course will be required to act as liaisons and translators for the rest of the group.  In some cases, information may only be available in Spanish, and it will be the responsibility of these students to assist the professor in the translation/communication of this information.  These students will also compile (individually) a list of pertinent vocabulary in Spanish relating to the archeology and anthropology lexicons.

Course evaluation:  Students will be responsible for a short paper and presentation on a particular aspect (of their own choosing) of the Mayan culture, and will therefore be performing some pre-departure investigations.  They will also gather information during the on-site visits to ruins and museums.  Throughout the term, students will also be required to prepare and discuss readings for a broader and keener understanding of key cultural issues.  Additionally, all students will keep a daily journal of the trip (those seeking Spanish credits will write in Spanish).

This course will be graded Pass/Fail.

Credit:  Students will receive 4 credits for satisfactory completion of this course.  Some students may (with consent of instructor) receive 2 elective Spanish credits, replacing two of the general credits (these Spanish credits will be considered "conversation" credits, thus taking the place of Spanish 303 in the student's Spanish major/minor requirements).   



Meeting Time: On Campus: MTWRF 9:00-12:00
Prerequisites: None (Spanish 202 to receive Spanish conversation credits)
Fee: $1800