GWSS 390 B: Intermediate Special Topics in Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies

Course meets as MELC 308/508 and GWSS 390 (section?), 3 credits, MW 3:30-4:50

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Priestess, merchant, ruling queen--weaver, potter, legend-writer--the women of the ancient Middle East (Egypt, Sumer, Syria, Babylon, Israel/Judah, Hatti...) were all these things. Explore the experiences of women at all levels of ancient society and how they were involved in religion, politics, and the economy.

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From Enheduanna, writer and priestess, to the hard-working tradeswomen of Old Assyria, we'll learn about them! (Other highlights: Hatshepsut, who ruled as king of Egypt; the women of Nuzi, used as collateral by their male family members; a queen of Ugarit who really wanted a divorce; and more.) How were they viewed within their societies? How did they see themselves?

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Sign up to engage with fun texts written by ancient women, do time travel assignments, and explore the life of someone who interests you in a final project. No prerequisites, no final exam. All readings will be posted on Canvas.

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I haven't revised the syllabus for 2026 yet, but it will be similar to this: SYLLABUS MELC 308 Revised 2-13-25.docx