Key facts
UNE unit code: RELS384
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Many modern day social practices in many regions of the world have developed over centuries in response to the religious practices and beliefs of ancient times. In studying this unit, you will develop an appreciation of the religious history of the ancient near eastern region and deepen your understanding of these cultures.
In this unit you will examine the religions of the three major areas of the Ancient Near East: Egypt, Mesopotamia and Canaan/Israel.
You will look at the beliefs and practices of the Egyptians, Sumerians, Akkadians, Babylonians, and Israelites. You will study the ancient myths, epic poetry, and afterlife spells and you will develop your ability to use primary and secondary resources as a basis for historical study.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- exhibit broad theoretical knowledge of the major religions of the ancient near east;
- demonstrate a high level of competence in the use of primary texts as resources for historical study;
- collect, collate, and synthesise evidence from a range of primary texts and secondary sources;
- compare and critically evaluate religious beliefs and practices across a range of ancient near eastern societies; and
- write analytically and coherently at undergraduate level.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Written Task No. Words: 1500 |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 60% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 3000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
Gods in the Desert: Religion of the Ancient Near East
ISBN: 9780742562271
Holland, G.S., Rowman and Littlefield Publishers. 2010
Text refers to: All offerings
Myths from Mesopotamia: Creation, The Flood, Gilgamesh and Others
ISBN: 9780199538362
Dalley, S., OUP 1989
Text refers to: All offerings
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