AAH3250 - Archaeology of the Roman Mediterranean

Leader(s): Colin Hope

Offered

Not offered in 2009

Synopsis

The focus of the unit is to analyze the archaeological material of the Roman Empire, and to also examine the regional variations that epitomized cultural progression and acculturation throughout the Mediterranean throughout the period in question. The unit will examine closely the ancient archaeological sources for the Roman period from the 2nd century BCE to the 4th century CE: architectural, numismatic, epigraphic and sculptural, in an attempt to provide the students with the most comprehensive understanding of Roman material culture. The focus will be on what has been discovered and how it can be analyzed and interpreted.

Objectives

On successful completion of the unit, students will have:

1. Gained an understanding of archaeological traditions concerning the Roman World;
2. Gained an understanding of the importance of the archaeological sources for the period: coins, art, architecture, epigraphy;
3. Acquired an understanding of the impact that Roman culture had upon the entire Mediterranean world;
4. Gained an understanding of the significance of the material culture of the Roman Empire and how it impacted on the provinces;
5. The ability to use and assess a variety of archaeological sources and relevant documentary material;
6. Proficiency in critical reading and writing skills; and
7. Developed a more sophisticated understanding of both ancient and modern archaeological traditions and displayed a thorough knowledge of analytical criticism.

Assessment

Written work/exam: 80% (3500 words)
tutorial presentation/participation: 20%

Contact hours

One 1.5 hour lecture and a one-hour tutorial per week over a 12 week period.

Prerequisites

First year sequence in Archaeology, Classical Studies or History, or other discipline with approval.

Prohibitions

AAH2250