This joint degree combines the study of archaeology and classics.By bringing together the study of ancient historical sources with the theory and practice of archaeology, you will explore the ancient civilisations of Greece, Rome, Egypt and the Near East.In the broadest sense the ancient civilisations of the Mediterranean began with the development of farming and the growth of complex societies in western Asia. This culminated with the rise of Christianity and Islam.The influence of these civilisations extended over a huge area from the northern coasts of Britain in Northwest Europe to the boundaries of Iran in the Near East and beyond.Analysis of these compelling documentary sources forms a key component of this programme. However, historical accounts are often fragmentary, and are sometimes biased towards major events or prominent individuals.Archaeology is the study of the material remains of past peoples. It offers an extra source of evidence for reconstructing and understanding the day-to-day lives of the ancient Mediterranean people.