This course explores globalization of the ancient through early Medieval Afro-Eurasian world through the lens of the Silk Road cultural exchange. Rival states, luxury goods, "forgotten" empires, peripatetic merchants, and religion are all implicated in the exchange of goods and ideas across a vast and dynamic network that remains poorly understood and full of methodological complexity. We will look at the formation of long-distance global networks and the exchange of art, objects, technologies, and texts of the Mediterranean, Middle East, Central Asia, and East Asia. We will consider the social dynamics and mechanisms of human connection over these long distances through the archaeological sites that document such interactions. Finally, we will also consider the implications of the "Silk Road" paradigm among modern globalization and nationalisms from the Mediterranean through East Asia by thinking through the representation and conservation of heritage sites, global economic initiatives, and archaeological reception.
5 units · Letter or Credit/No Credit
This course explores globalization of the ancient through early Medieval Afro-Eurasian world through the lens of the Silk Road cultural exchange. Rival states, luxury goods, "forgotten" empires, peripatetic merchants, and religion are all implicated in the exchange of goods and ideas across a vast and dynamic network that remains poorly understood and full of methodological complexity. We will look at the formation of long-distance global networks and the exchange of art, objects, technologies, and texts of the Mediterranean, Middle East, Central Asia, and East Asia. We will consider the social dynamics and mechanisms of human connection over these long distances through the archaeological sites that document such interactions. Finally, we will also consider the implications of the "Silk Road" paradigm among modern globalization and nationalisms from the Mediterranean through East Asia by thinking through the representation and conservation of heritage sites, global economic initiatives, and archaeological reception.
Offered in Winter 2026 at Stanford University.