AUS4130

Material culture: theory and practice

Peter Spearritt

8 points
* One 2-hour seminar per week
* First semester
* Clayton

Objectives On successful completion of this subject students should demonstrate an understanding of theories of material culture research and of the role of material culture as historical and cultural evidence. Students should also show an awareness of the importance of the detail of everyday life in the study of culture and society.

Synopsis This subject introduces students to the challenging field of material culture research. Students address a range of topics including material culture as evidenced in art history, social history, folk culture and everyday life, and material culture and cultural policy. Particular themes include the culture of consumption and retailing in Australia, the Australian homestead as a time capsule, and issues involved in the collection of Aboriginal material culture. A strong emphasis will be placed on fieldwork, with field trips both in and outside of Melbourne.

Assessment Class paper (1500 words): 25%
* Field project (1500 words): 25%
* Research essay (4000 words): 50%

Prescribed texts

Marquis-Kyle P and Walker M The illustrated Burra Charter Australia ICOMOS/Australian Heritage Commission, 1992