Frauds and Mysteries of the Past

Catalog description

Myths, mysteries, misconceptions, and hoaxes in history and archaeology. Examination of popular fascinations with the past, fallacies invoked in historical myths, and misappropriation of the past. Students learn about and implement methods and evidence used by scholars to interpret past peoples and events, logic, skepticism, and critical thinking, interpretative, and analytical skills. Students apply these skills in discussions, in-class activities, and creative assignments to debunk and disprove inaccurate and problematic claims about the past. Case studies of topics such as: stereotypes about early humans, Atlantis, mythical beasts, pyramid alignment, conspiracy theories, art fakes and forgeries, and alien visitations.