Archaeology

This course examines methods and theories that define the archaeological discipline. It covers sites and archaeological discussions which have defined the discipline of archaeology; core theories and explanatory frameworks archaeologists use to interpret material culture; tools and instruments from the exact sciences archaeologists use to reconstruct the past; excavation reports and central heritage legislation.

This course is both an introduction to archeology and a study of the archeology of France, including an exploration of the oldest remains in Europe and France. It provides an overview of prehistoric people and cultures, with a strong emphasis on relics and archeological data found in France, and how the ancient people of what is modern France once lived. The course begins with an explanation of the tenets of archeology as a profession, and then delves into the various geological and climatic eras on Earth. It also examines the variety of human species along with their artifacts, namely in France. Discussions include the main stages of the chronology and the technical, economic, and social specifics of the societies of the current territories of France for each major historical period. The course sessions are shared by three instructors, each working in their area of expertise.

This course reviews the turbulent development of London from the Roman period (c AD 47) to the rebuilding of the City after the Great Fire of 1666, integrating archaeological, architectural, and documentary sources. It considers the non-linear trajectory its development, noting the serious setbacks such (rebellions, foreign invasions, conflagrations, major plague) and the impacts these had on its ultimately successful commercial expansion.

People have been living on the island of Ireland for the last 10,000 years. This course tells that human story from early hunter-gatherer times to the present. Students follow the footprints of people through time by means of the spectacular archaeological heritage that is such a central feature of the Irish landscape. This rich and diverse record of monuments, landscapes, and objects is explored and interpreted to provide a narrative of the lifestyles of people in the past. Students study the first settlement of the island, the establishment of farming, and the building of monuments like Newgrange. The course explores Ireland's place in the Celtic world and the lasting impacts of the introduction of Christianity. The richness of the historic archaeological gives a vivid picture of life and society in medieval times and the emergence of modern Ireland. This is an accessible course for students across the range of disciplines and programs. It provides students with a clear understanding of Ireland's past, the Irish landscape, and key times of innovation and change.

This course is part of the Laurea Magistrale program. The course is intended for advanced level students only. Enrollment is by consent of the instructor. The course covers the basic information necessary for understanding the complexity of modern Archaeological Museology: from knowledge of the scientific subject of Museology to Museum Practice. The course focuses on topics including the history of museology: from the “archetype” of museums in the ancient world to the “relational” museum today; the question of the role of media in museums today; experimental archaeology and ethno-archaeology in connection with archaeological preservation and enhancement; the question of archaeological parks designed to create interest and foster critical debate; and archeological tourism: management and culture. Students submit a case study that focuses on a specific museum, exhibition site, or archaeological park, or is an analysis of a specific theme related to the course. Case study outlines are provided during the course. The course includes two visits to local museums at the end of the scheduled class lectures. Assessment is based on a final oral exam covering course materials and a discussion of the case study. Students in Art History can take the course for under the Art History subject area in consultation with the instructor. In this case, students concentrate on the history of museum exhibits that focus on art objects such as paintings, ceramics, and even jewelry. Topics covered include museum architecture, history of museums, museums and cultural heritage, management of museums, and marketing of museums and exhibits: museum tourism.