3841 - Murals and Maize: An Introduction to the World of the Maya (Michael McDavid)
Course Description
Instructor: Michael McDavid
Discover the fascinating history of the Maya, one of the most advanced civilizations of the ancient Americas. Emerging nearly 4,000 years ago in what is now southern Mexico and Guatemala, Maya civilization developed remarkable achievements in architecture, writing, agriculture, and transportation.
In this four-week course, we will explore the origins and development of Maya civilization, from its impressive ceremonial centers and towering stone temples to its sophisticated writing system and agricultural innovations. We will examine the cultural and technological achievements that distinguished the Maya from neighboring Mesoamerican societies and consider the factors that contributed to the decline of the Classic Maya civilization during the 10th century.
We will also explore the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, and the profound changes brought by conquest. Through this historical journey, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the achievements, challenges, and enduring legacy of the Maya people.
Bio: Michael McDavid grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, and has called Atlanta home for the past 50 years. His interest in history began in the second grade, while his appreciation for food developed even earlier. Although his primary historical focus has been European history, his curiosity extends to just about anything that happened in the past. Michael earned his undergraduate degree in history from Furman University and master's degrees in European history and library science from Emory University. His professional career included library management positions at Equifax and Georgia State University, as well as a position with the Boston Consulting Group. Along the way, he satisfied his passion for history by teaching as an adjunct faculty member at Georgia Perimeter College. Now retired, Michael enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for history with lifelong learners through a variety of courses at OLLI at Emory.