Topics in Ancient Science and Technology (314-0-1)

Topic

Ancient Astronomy

Instructors

Nicholas Laurence Winters

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-415: Mon, Wed 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

This course will explore the history of European and Near Eastern astronomy from the 7th century BCE to the 6th century CE. Students will learn the fundamentals of the geocentric model, ancient methods of observation, and traditions of cosmology. We will study the history of time-reckoning and calendar-making, as well as portrayals of astronomy and celestial phenomena in myth and literature. In addition to reading ancient texts, students will also make their own observations using models of ancient instruments and the methods of ancient astronomers.

Class Materials (Required)

Evans, James. The History and Practice of Ancient Astronomy. Oxford University Press, 1998. 978-0195095395

Class Notes

Please use the following link for Classics waitlist information: https://classics.northwestern.edu/courses/2023-2024/classics-waitlist.html

Class Attributes

Historical Studies Foundational Discipline
Historical Studies Distro Area