Why study ancient culture?

We must ask ourselves two questions. Do we study these cultures because, to some extent all cultures share certain characteristics? Does our own culture reflect aspects of these other cultures? As we look for universals we must guard against the assumption that other people think as we do—or that they should. Interestingly, these differences may help us better to see—and know—the limits of our culture and the limits of our language and experience. What is a culture after all?
Explore further Ancient World Cultures and see some examples at http://eawc.evansville.edu