This class offers a glimpse into the world of the ancient Maya through the life and death of K'inich Janaab' Pakal (603 - 683 CE), also known as Pakal the Great. While Maya kingship typically was passed down from father to son, Pakal was unusual in that he did not inherit the throne from his father; instead, Pakal's mother and grandmother had ruled the city of Palenque as kings! 

Like King Tutankhamun of Egypt, Pakal became a king while still a boy and is well-known, in part, due to his tomb. However, unlike King Tut, he went on to rule until his death at age 80 and left behind a strong legacy, growing the city of Palenque from a modest one into one of the greatest Maya cities at the time.

Few ancient Maya artifacts intrigue us as much as the sarcophagus lid of Pakal the Great. Weighing about five tons, this lid made of a single stone is intricately carved with rich imagery associated with the king's journey from the world of the living to the world of the dead. By taking this course, students will learn about the symbols depicted on the sarcophagus lid, along with associated mythology about life, death, and the Maya underworld.

This class is taught with large images in a slide show for students to examine details in the sarcophagus lid as well as related images. I will ask students to make observations and point out relevant symbols and artistic choices. My teaching style is conversational, collaborative, and encouraging. My goal is to motivate curiosity and enthusiasm about our subjects. I also encourage students to ask their own questions and be active participants in the learning process.

Some knowledge of the ancient Maya is helpful, but not necessary.