Choose one (1) of the topics below and develop a three to four (3-4) paragraph essay (of at least 250-500 words) which adequately address the topic you have chosen.

There have been many theories regarding how the pyramids at Giza were constructed. Most experts agree that they were constructed as burial monuments for pharaohs, but “how” these ancient people
constructed monuments of such great size without modern machinery is a mystery which is still being debated. No one can say for certain what happened to the great urban Mayan civilization, but
theories abound and include varied possible alternatives to explain the relatively abrupt and mysterious disappearance of the Mayan civilization. Tutankhamen died young, at approximately eighteen
(18) years of age. However, his cause of death has been the subject of quite varied scholarly theories and conclusions. Did he die of an injury, of illness, of murder, or something else?. Minoan
Crete was a major civilization in its time, but several theories have been advanced to explain its demise, including speculations associating it with mythical Atlantis. What were the causes of
Minoan Civilization’s decline? Great Zimbabwe is an enormous complex of structures in East Africa. Since the builders and occupants left no written records, several theories have developed as to
the identity of its builders and the functions of the structures. Which theory makes the most sense? The monumental size and complexity of the Tomb of Shihuangdi is astounding, yet its location and
construction details were to be kept secret. What was the emperor’s purpose for such an elaborate, secret burial place?

Write a three to four (3-4) paragraph paper in which you:

Clearly state the “mystery” and provide a brief summary of at least two (2) reasonable and scholarly theories which could explain the mystery. Because some theories may sound far-fetched, include
the source or promoter of each theory — such as a scientist, a historian, a theologian, etc. After summarizing at least two (2) scholarly theories, identify one (1) of the theories as the most
plausible and provide at least two (2) convincing reasons why the theory you have chosen is the best one to explain the mystery.

Explain how key social, cultural, and artistic contributions contribute to historical changes.

Explain the importance of situating a society’s cultural and artistic expressions within a historical context. Examine the influences of intellectual, religious, political, and socio-economic
forces on social, cultural, and artistic expressions. Identify major historical developments in world cultures during the eras of antiquity to the Renaissance Use technology and information
resources to research issues in the study of world cultures. Write clearly and concisely about world cultures using proper writing mechanics.