INTRODUCCIÓN
Welcome to the world of history and culture—a world that’s embedded in the foundations of who we are. It’s old but it’s alive, brimming with stories of kings and queens, knights and warriors, rich civilizations and cultures long gone. These stories are intrinsically woven into the fabric of humanity that we wear today. This is the Mundo antiguo. Whether you’re a curious novice or a seasoned explorer rediscovering the enchantment of these forgotten times, this beginner-friendly guide to the Old World offers a riveting journey into antiquity that’s both exciting and informative.
¿QUÉ ES EL VIEJO MUNDO?
The term “Old World” refers to the part of the world known to Europeans before the discovery of Americas, including Europe, Asia, and Africa. It draws its etymology from the Cartesian Coordinate System, where the Old World is located in the Eastern Hemisphere. But more than its geographical significance, the Old World represents a treasure trove of ancient cultures and civilizations that have laid the building blocks for human evolution. It tells a tale of epochs unfolded, from the time when Pyramids were skyscrapers to the era of Kings and Queens ruling vast empires, to the period where religions took birth, transforming societal structures forever.
HOW IT WORKS or HOW TO GET STARTED
Exploring the Old World can be a fascinating journey filled with countless stories waiting to be unearthed. Start by choosing a theme or a specific civilization that interests you. Perhaps you’re intrigued by ancient Egypt, Roman emperors, or Medieval Europe. It could also be cultural practices such as Greek philosophy, Chinese medicine, or Indian yoga attracting you. Once you pick up your thread, follow it through history—study its rise, zenith, and fall. Use a multiplicity of tools like books, articles, documentaries, museums, art collections, and archaeological remains. Look for connections between different time periods, geographical places, and common cultural aspects. As you delve deeper, you’ll unravel intriguing tales and patterns of human life across centuries.
LO QUE NECESITAS PARA JUGAR
The main requirement for this journey is an insatiable curiosity. Equipment-wise, a good history book or a comprehensive encyclopedia about ancient civilizations will be immensely helpful. Other useful tools include documentaries, historical novels, art replicas, and even history-themed games. The internet is full of valuable resources—you just need to know where to look.
CONSEJOS PARA PRINCIPIANTES
1. Start Small: Choose a specific region or civilization in the Old World to begin your journey. Trying to cover everything can be overwhelming.
2. Use Visual Aids: Maps and diagrams help in better understanding the geographical and cultural context.
3. Explore Different Perspectives: Read different authors and watch various documentaries to get a broad perspective.
4. Visit Museums: Physical or online visits to museums can offer firsthand experience of the historical artifacts.
5. Engage in Discussions: Participate in history-themed forums or groups to broaden your understanding and share your insights.
RECURSOS ÚTILES
Online resources like HISTORY, Smithsonian Channel, and National Geographic offer a plethora of articles, documentaries, and videos about the Old World. Websites like Coursera, Khan Academy, and Edx offer online courses on specific civilizations. History forums can also be quite insightful.
GLOSARIO: EXPLICACIÓN DE TÉRMINOS COMUNES
1. Archaeology: The study of human history and prehistory through the excavation of sites and the analysis of artifacts.
2. Civilization: Advanced stage of human social development marked by complex social structure and written language.
3. Empire: An extensive territory under single supreme authority.
4. Dynasty: A line of rulers from the same family.
5. Medieval: Relating to the Middle Ages.
PRÓXIMOS PASOS: ¿QUÉ HACER A PARTIR DE AHORA?
Once you have laid the foundation, your next step could be to delve deeper into a more specific aspect of the chosen civilization or culture. Perhaps you’re intrigued by the sub-discipline of Women in Ancient Egypt or Warfare in the Roman Empire. The more specific you go, the more specialized your knowledge becomes. Exploring the Old World is like venturing into a labyrinth of stories, with each turn unveiling new facets of the human journey through time. Remember, as you journey through the alleys of time, you’re not only communing with different eras but also engaging in a dialogue with humanity itself. Welcome to the Old World—the place where the past comes alive!
