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The Mystery of Stonehenge, 2007.
This paper discusses the unknown builder and purpose of Stonehenge, the ancient archaeological site in England.
1,255 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
The paper examines opposing viewpoints on who possibly built Stonehenge, why they did and what the site was used for. The paper relates that Stonehenge is one of the most famous ancient archaeological sites in the world. The paper explains that many believe it holds religious significance, especially for the Druids, while others believe it was a sort of "sky map" that showed the positions of the sun and moon. The paper concludes that whatever its purpose was, Stonehenge is still magnificent and awesome today.
From the Paper
"Stonehenge was built on the Salisbury Plain in Southern England. It lies about eight miles north of the town of Salisbury. Just about everyone is familiar with the look of Stonehenge - giant boulders moved to the site and arranged in a circle, with long boulders placed on top of the upright stones to form a type of lintel. However, there is more to Stonehenge than this famous image of upright stones. Stonehenge actually encompasses several different sections of building and development, from the ditch (now almost entirely filled in with silt) that surrounds the area to the bank rising up from the remains of the ditch and the Aubrey Holes and cemetery at the site."
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Smilodons, 2007.
An analysis of the habits and hunting practices of the smilodon.
2,914 words (approx. 11.7 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 86.95
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Abstract
This paper studies the habits of the smilodon, which was one of the most interesting predators of the Pleistocene era. It analyzes findings of of smilodon fossils and discusses how the findings have changed many of the ideas about the smilodon. It also discusses the social versus solitary natures of the animals and their hunting practices.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
What We Know About Smilodon
Social or Solitary
Genetics and DNA
How the Smilodon Attacked
Conclusion
From the Paper
"When stalking its prey, the smilodon often injured itself and pulled soft tissues. The scars of these tissues bear the scars of these injuries. According to Rosie and Winters, the most common position for the body of a smilodon to be in when it attacked was feet forward in a lunge. This would suggest that smilodon would spring onto its prey. This theory was derived from data obtained by counting the number and location of injuries in the fossil record. It might be noted that when one compared the injuries of smilodon to canine species, there were fewer injuries from being kicked in the head. This would indicate that canine species attacked by lunging at the throat or hind quarters, whereas the smilodon landed on top of the animal's back and tried to bowl it over."
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Mesopotamian and Egyptian Art, 2007.
This paper compares and contrasts the art and architecture of Mesopotamia and Egypt.
801 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how the art and architecture of both Mesopotamia and Egypt are similarly drawn from their environment, geographical characteristics, climate and natural resources. The paper explains how Mesopotamians benefited from their natural wealth, while the Egyptians focused on their classic achievement, the pyramids. The paper notes that basic differences include the subjugated expressions of Mesopotamian art and architecture on account of their subjugation to other peoples, who envied their natural resources. On the other hand, the paper shows how Egyptian art and architecture document their uniqueness in every feature of the tombs, reliefs and statutes they built for their kings.
From the Paper
""Mesopotamia" is the Greek word for "between the rivers" and refers to that region between the Tigris and the Euphrates Rivers, presently occupied by Iraq, Turkley and Syria (Delahunt 2006). The region was occupied in ancient times by many groups, including the Sumerians, Akkadians, Assyrians, Amorites, Kassites, Persians, Greeks, and Chaldeans. They passed their powers on to the Arabs, who now occupy current-day Mesopotamia. There is little rainfall in this region and access to the two rivers has been difficult. People in the region have built dams and grew food in the rich soil. They built
canals in order to distribute scanty water, an activity, which united them. They also invented the plough to raise their cattle and sheep."
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Mysteries of the Universe, 2006.
A review of science versus religion, as a tool to explain the mysteries of the universe.
902 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 32.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the issues of science versus religion when trying to unlock the mysteries of the universe. According to the paper, religion and science are often at odds, especially regarding core issues such as the nature of time, the origins of humanity and the nature of religion itself. The paper goes on to discuss how, rather than be at odds with one another, science and religion should cultivate a shared interface, complementing each other in their mutual endeavors.
From the Paper
"One of the most pressing questions in both religion and science is the nature of disease. Geneticists have been trying to unearth so-called founder mutations: one original genetic mutation that subsequently caused generations of people to carry and/or suffer from a serious illness like sickle cell anemia. Unlike many other mutations, founder mutations can be traced to one original ancestor. The discovery and study of founder mutations allows anthropologists to research the general patterns of human migration, providing a more complete understanding of history. Religion views genetic mutations in a different light. Many fundamentalist Christians, for example, might propose that disease is God-given. Yet if Mary Schweizer, an Evangelical Christian scientist, can unite religion with science then anyone can. Her devotion to fundamental Christian thought is not at odds with her scientific endeavors, according to Yeoman. In fact, Schweizer views science as a spiritual endeavor, as a means to discover the meaning of life, death, and seeming anomalies. Religion and science share common goals and objectives even when their theoretical underpinnings are in conflict with one another."
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The Epic of Gilgamesh, 2007.
An analysis of the epic tale of Gilgamesh from Babylonia.
889 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the Gilgamesh epic from Babylonia, which is believed to be the oldest known work of literature, written approximately in the year 2500 BC. The paper describes Gilgamesh, the demigod who ruled Uruk on the River Euphrates in the third millennium BC. The paper further describes the epic's account of the Deluge, similar to the Flood of the Bible, the artifacts it discusses, which are associated with Agga and Enmebaragesi of Kish, and its descriptions of the nature of heroism.
From the Paper
"Gilgamesh is two-thirds god and one-third human and the strongest superhuman who ever lived (Kovacs 1989, Hooker 1996, Wikipedia 2006). The gods are disturbed by the extent of his might and his people, by his harshness and abuses, so that the gods send the wild man Enkidu to rival and handicap him. But Enkidu loses his strength by giving in to the seduction of the temple harlot Shamnat, who introduces him to a civilized life in Uruk, instead. There Enkidu engages into a losing fight with Gilgamesh when Enkidu tries to champion the rights of the people against their leader. But in the end, the two become friends. Gilgamesh goes on a victory spree and now wants to cut down cedar trees to construct the gate of his city. In order to do so, they have to combat and eliminate the guardian of the cedar forest, the demon Humbaba, which Gilgamesh is able to do with the help of Enkidu and the god Shamash. Despite Humbaba's appeal, Gilgamesh cuts off Humbaba's head on the prompting of Enkidu. But before dying, Humbaba curses Enkidu (Kovacs, Wikipedia, Hooker)."
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Mummification in Egypt, 2006.
A review of the ritual of mummification of the dead.
1,016 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 35.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the process of ritual mummification in ancient Egypt. According to the paper, mummification refers to the process by means of which a human or animal body was preserved in ancient times.
From the Paper
"The human and animal bodies were usually mummified the same way with the exception of a few things like linen and masks. Natron was used as the disinfectant and organs were usually removed to prevent internal decay. Heart was not removed however since it was considered the main organ of intelligence and hence sacred. Corpses were washed and wrapped in linen and bitumen was sometimes used for preservation. This was the practice during the Late Period and linen was normally provided by family of the deceased. Masks were used to cover the face of the deceased. Royal mummies were usually adorned with masks made of gold and silver while in other cases, wooden masks were also used. "
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African Art and Repatriation, 2007.
A debate over the importance of cultural repatriation of the Lega figure to the people of Congo.
715 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the issues surrounding cultural and artistic repatriation, which remains one of the most contentious debates within the international archaeological and artistic community. The paper specifically discusses the Lega figure and the arguments for and against its repatriation, for cultural reasons, to the people of Congo. The paper then draws a conclusion as to the best course of action to take, regarding this piece of work.
Table of Contents:
Basic Criteria For Repatriation
Argument In Favor Of The Return Of The Selected Object
Argument Against The Return Of The Selected Object
Conclusion
From the Paper
"However, merely because using the Lega figure as teaching tools in museums to different nations of the world does not justify the cultural loss to the people of the Congo, who originated these works to be part of their religious tradition, not as artifacts to teach the nations who exerted colonial domination over their territories. Also, even if the Lega figures are individualistic, this does not take away from their ritual significance. Finally, the idea that Western art scholars only approved of the Lega after recognizing the individual component added by certain creators shows that the Lega remain judged by Western standards, and not by the indigenous standards of their local community--the repatriation and relocation of the works may be necessary so the world can be educated in the contextual significance of these figures as well as judged by Western standards."
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Woodland Indians, 2006.
A look at Woodland Indians and their culture.
1,196 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the lives of Woodland Indians. According to the paper, the study of Woodland Indian culture is difficult, the reason being a lack of evidence. Many artifacts and remains were destroyed by amateurs lacking the skills to preserve the evidence. However, archaeologists were able to substantiate an entire society's way of life by tracking and analyzing how much chert was to be found in rocks and stream beds.
From the Paper
"They also left weapons, including; arrowheads, axes, spearheads and knives of many different shapes and sizes. A well trained archeologist would be able to glean much information from these artifacts if allowed to discover them in their context. The museum also displayed how the Woodland Indians played and hunted."
"One display showed how hunting was their main source for food and also supplied them with skins for clothing and bedding to keep them warm during the winter. That same display informed us that the Indians played many games, including lacrosse. There were some games that only the woman played, while the men also showed off their skills at archery and spear throwing. Dice was also popular, although they probably did not use the same type of manufactured dice that we use today. "
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The Story of Man, 2006.
A discussion regarding the origins of man.
2,263 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 70.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at the supposed origins of man. According to the paper, studies and archaeological evidence show that man first lived in South Africa. The paper goes on to discuss evidence that proves that the remains found there are of humans rather than animals. The paper further discusses evolution.
From the Paper
"So we know these African fossils were human, because they had certain body characteristics that other animals do not have. They had a triangular foot, which allowed them to walk long distances upright on two feet. They had a truly opposable thumb which allowed them to develop fine more skills. Their shoulder, knee and hip joints showed adaptations for walking, slightly different from other hominids (human like animals). Their skulls had a larger space for a brain and the patterns inside the skull bones showed more development of the frontal lobe, the one we use for thinking. Finally their teeth were a variety that allowed them to eat all kinds of food. They had sharp teeth for cutting meat and vegetables, double pointed teeth for tearing and large grinding teeth for mashing up seeds and plants."
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Curation Crisis in Archaeology, 2007.
This paper explores the current crisis in American archaeological curation.
2,057 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 64.95
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Abstract
This paper examines current issues in archaeology, most specifically the problems in American curation. The author describes the emphasis archaeology places on excavation, yet cites the lack of resources allocated for maintaining artifacts. The author further highlights the problems with storage facilities, conservation of artifacts, and making finds available to the public. The paper concludes stating that the curation crisis is the product of poor planning, idealization of field work versus curation work, and a zealous but misguided approach to archeology as a whole
From the Paper
"Entire collections of artifacts across the country are simply vanishing or being hidden away so deeply that they are forgotten about completely, not to mention being stored in substandard conditions that do not preserve them for posterity. Items such as soil samples and bits of charcoal offer a wealth of information, however because they do not have any commercial value on the antiquities market, they are treated as if they are in fact worthless. Unfortunately, archaeological sites are becoming more rare, and as the availability of new artifacts lessens, it becomes even more important to care for the artifacts that have already been unearthed and continue having them available for further research. ("A Curation Crisis") The San Diego Archeological Center defines curation as the care, management, and use of archeological collections. "Care means that you prevent deterioration, management means that collections are organized and accessible, and use means that you use collections for scientific research, public education or cultural use." (San Diego) Curation is a matter of respect for the cultures from which collections have been obtained, as well as respect for the educational value of these artifacts for today and tomorrow, not to mention respect for the amount of work and money that has been invested in these collections. However, this respect is not currently an inherent part of the archaeological or curation process, and while steps are being taken towards improving the current conditions, a new approach must be taken in order to prevent further deterioration of collections and eventually fix the problem."
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