Researchers into the origins of human language, mythic narrative and ritual have recently made exciting discoveries. It is now known that symbolic culture began emerging in Africa some 100,000 years ago, in a social revolution whose echoes can still be heard in mythic narratives and ritual traditions from around the world.

This course is a general introduction to anthropology including the latest findings from palaeogenetics, evolutionary biology, primatology, rock art research and archaeology. There will be a strong emphasis on Native American, African and Australian Aboriginal mythology. Lectures during the summer term will cover the history of anthropology and archaeology, including past and present debates where these have contemporary relevance.

The course should also be enjoyable: the community centre is centrally located, with good local pubs, and there is always time for discussion and socialising. You will also have an opportunity to participate in a number of field trips and conferences. Anthropology – the study of human life – is the most interesting of all subjects, and discussions on the issues it raises are invariably lively.