HUM111 Strayer University The Mayan Civilization

Follow the rubric in the attached document.

Choose one (1) of the topics below and develop at least 2 pg essay which adequately address the
topic you have chosen.

Topic Choices

• There have been many theories regarding how the pyramids at Giza
  were constructed. Most experts agree that they were constructed as
  burial monuments for pharaohs, but “how” these ancient people
  constructed monuments of such great size without modern machinery is a
  mystery which is still being debated.
• No one can say for certain what happened to the great urban Mayan
  civilization, but theories abound and include varied possible
  alternatives to explain the relatively abrupt and mysterious
  disappearance of the Mayan civilization.
• Tutankhamen died young, at approximately eighteen (18) years of age.
  However, his cause of death has been the subject of quite varied
  scholarly theories and conclusions. Did he die of an injury, of illness,
  of murder, or something else?.
• Minoan Crete was a major civilization in its time, but several
  theories have been advanced to explain its demise, including
  speculations associating it with mythical Atlantis. What were the causes
  of Minoan Civilization’s decline?
• Great Zimbabwe is an enormous complex of structures in East Africa.
  Since the builders and occupants left no written records, several
  theories have developed as to the identity of its builders and the
  functions of the structures. Which theory makes the most sense?
• The monumental size and complexity of the Tomb of Shihuangdi is
  astounding, yet its location and construction details were to be kept
  secret. What was the emperor’s purpose for such an elaborate, secret
  burial place?
• Other topic choice recommended and approved by the professor and supported by the grading rubric.

Write a three to four (3-4) paragraph paper in which you:

1. Clearly state the “mystery” and provide a brief summary of at least
   two (2) reasonable and scholarly theories which could explain the
   mystery. Because some theories may sound far-fetched, include the source
   or promoter of each theory – such as a scientist, a historian, a
   theologian, etc.
2. After summarizing at least two (2) scholarly theories, identify one
   (1) of the theories as the most plausible and provide at least two (2)
   convincing reasons why the theory you have chosen is the best one to
   explain the mystery. This will involve some critical reasoning skills on
   your part.
3. Use at least two (2) sources plus the class textbook. (Three [3] sources total as the minimum) Note:
   Wikipedia and other similar Websites do not qualify as academic
   resources. You are highly encouraged to use the Resource Center tab at
   the top of your Blackboard page.

Your assignment must follow these formatting requirements:

• This course requires use of Strayer Writing Standards
  (SWS). The format is different than other Strayer University courses.
  Please take a moment to review the SWS documentation for details.

The specific course learning outcomes associated with this assignment are:

• Explain how key social, cultural, and artistic contributions contribute to historical changes.
• Explain the importance of situating a society’s cultural and artistic expressions within a historical context.
• Examine the influences of intellectual, religious, political, and
  socio-economic forces on social, cultural, and artistic expressions.
• Identify major historical developments in world cultures during the eras of antiquity to the Renaissance
• Use technology and information resources to research issues in the study of world cultures.
• Write clearly and concisely about world cultures using proper writing mechanics.