Do you want to study ancient history, but don’t know how or where to start? It can be daunting, considering how vast and complex the field is. However, by breaking it down into smaller, manageable pieces, you’ll be able to develop a solid understanding of the subject in no time. Here’s a suggested approach to get you started.
How to Effectively Study Ancient History
Pick a Region or Civilization and Start There
One of the best ways to learn about ancient history is to focus on a specific region or civilization. By zeroing in on one particular area, you’ll be able to learn all about the people who lived there, their customs, their beliefs, and their way of life. Plus, you can explore how that region or civilization interacted with its neighbors. For example, if you’re interested in Greek history, you might start by studying the minoans and mycenaeans. From there, you can move on to the classical period and the Hellenistic period.
Read Primary Sources Whenever Possible
If you really want to get a feel for what life was like in ancient times, it’s important that you read primary sources whenever possible. Primary sources are firsthand accounts of historical events written by people who were actually there. They offer valuable insights that you just can’t get from secondary sources (books and articles written by modern historians). When it comes to ancient history, some of the most famous primary sources include Julius Caesar’s Commentaries on the Gallic War and The Odyssey by Homer.
You may also be interested in:
- 15 Top UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Falak-ol-Aflak castle, Iran
- The Terracotta Army of China
- Shigir Idol: Twice as Old as the Pyramids and Stonehenge
- The ancient ruins of Vat Phou, Laos
Make Use of Technology
In today’s day and age, there are all sorts of technological resources at your disposal that can make studying ancient history easier and more fun. For example, there are loads of great apps that provide digital versions of primary sources. There are also games that let you step into the shoes of an ancient Roman soldier or Egyptian tomb raider. And don’t forget about YouTube! There are tons of great educational channels out there that cover all sorts of topics related to ancient history.
There’s no doubt about it–studying ancient history takes time, effort, and dedication. However, if you approach it in a systematic way and make use of all the resources at your disposal–including primary sources, technology, and outside reading material–you’ll find that it’s not nearly as difficult (or boring!) as it may initially seem. So roll up your sleeves and get started!
