total run-time(CD ROM) : 60 mins
                                                                      + additional classroom activities

1. The Ancient World

Students learn about and compare four great peoples of the Ancient World - Rome, Parthia, Han China and the Xiongnu barbarians of the Asiatic steppe.

2. Crassus and the Battle of Carrhae

Students then learn about Crassus' ill-fated invasion of Mesopotamia, the point of departure for Dubs' theory. Through interactive maps and exposition, they learn how the Parthians outsmarted Crassus, leading the Romans deeper and deeper into the desert before cutting them to shreds.

3. The Journey East

Students use interactive materials to follow the route which Professor Dubs believed the Roman soldiers took on their journey East, through Parthia, along the Silk Road to Central Asia and modern day Kazakhstan then finally into Han China.

At the same time students use their knowledge of the Roman army to engage with Dubs' central proposition, that, according to Chinese sources, soldiers appearing to utilise Roman tactics fought for a Xiongnu king against a Han Chinese army in 36 BC.

4. Life in Han Dynasty China

Finally students learn about life in Han Dynasty China as Dubs' soldiers might have experienced it, applying their knowledge of Ancient Rome to conduct a comparative study. This then serves as a launchpad for the supplied follow-on activities for use in class or at home.

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