EXPR 209(F) The Art and Archaeology of Maya Civilization: A Marriage Made in Xibalba (Same as Anthropology 219 and ArtH 209)*

The ancient Maya civilization was one of the most sophisticated and complex cultures of prehispanic Central America. Its complex calendrics, astronomy, mathematics and hieroglyphic writing system are well known worldwide. The course will examine the trajectory and nature of ancient Maya civilization from the combined perspectives of art history and archaeology. The evolution of the Maya state during the Preclasssic period (1000 B.C.-A.D. 250) will be evaluated by looking at the rich archaeological evidence and at the Preclassic art styles of the predecessors of the Mayas. The social, economic, political and ideological organization of the Classic Maya civilization (A.D. 250-1000) will then be presented through a detailed survey of the archaeology and art of this period. Finally, the collapse of Classic Maya civilization and its transformation and endurance during the Postclassic period and under Spanish rule (A.D. 1000-1600) will be critically evaluated through a detailed review of the archaeological and iconographic evidence. Lectures and class discussions. Requirements: midterm and final exams, research paper. Prerequisite: none, but an introductory art history or anthropology course highly recommended. Satisifies one semester of Division I credit if taken as ArtH 209. Satisfies one semester of Division II credit if taken as ANTH 219 or EXPR 219.

Hour: FOIAS and EDGERTON