If you've ever wished you had a better grasp of the broad sweep and patterns of human history, then this is the course for you. We'll be covering the whole span of history while asking, and trying to answer, some big questions.

Why, for example, did our ancestors survive when our cousins, the Neanderthals, became extinct? Why were plants domesticated in some places but not others?  Why did many places in different parts of the world experience very similar processes of urbanisation, centralisation of power and empire building? And why, in the nineteenth century, did Britain become the dominant global power rather than, say, China.

We'll conclude by exploring some of the big themes of the twentieth century, how they are affecting the present and how they might play out in the future.

Starts: Wednesday September 26th 3-5pm for 8 weeks

Location: The Shambles, Market House, Castle Cary, BA7 7AH

Cost: £80

Enrol: In person at the Market House or phone 01963 359631 (open Mon-Sat 9.30-12 noon)