Communication and trade routes between the Mediterranean and Asia

What is the course about?

In this 2-hour course we will explore the different commercial routes that crisscrossed the vast area between Central Asia, the Mediterranean basin and the Arabian Peninsula. We will get familiar with the famous Silk Road and the Incense Road and we will also analyse lesser-known but equally important trade routes, such as the King’s Highway. We will consider the role played by commercial routes in the exchange not only of precious and basic goods but also of ideas, new technologies, scientific discoveries, innovations in art and literature. The aim of this short course is to provide a panoramic view on the development of communication along the trade routes with a special focus on the late Classical and early Islamic periods.

This is part of a series of talks about the connections in the ancient Mediterranean world, which will culminate in a day of lecture at City Lit on Saturday 9th December.

What will we cover?

The Silk Road, the Incense Road and the lesser-known King’s Highway and the role they played in the the late Classical and early Islamic periods.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

share some knowledge about the topic of the talk.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This is a taster course. You do not need any particular skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Illustrated lecture followed by Q&A. No work outside of class.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Writing material if you would like to take notes.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Any other ancient civilisation courses. See our website for details.