HIST259

This course intends to provide a foundation in the global history of science, medicine, and technology in the ancient and medieval worlds. Students are introduced to the early science and medicine of European and Chinese classical antiquity before moving to the science and medicine of the medieval period, incorporating material from European, Chinese, Arabic and Persian sources. Moving chronologically through the semester, the course pays special attention to the connections and translations that enabled knowledge to circulate and transform. Students are introduced to methods of historical practice, including primary-source analysis, historical writing, library and research skills, and public history. No prior work in history of science is required or expected.