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Honors

HNRS 192-01: Archaeology: The Mediterranean World and Beyond

Archaeology is a multifaceted discipline in which various analytical and interpretive techniques are employed to understand the complexities of the human experience through time. Who lived in a region, how they subsisted, and with whom they interacted are all questions that can be understood by way of rigorous archaeological investigation. Through a variety of case studies from around the ancient Mediterranean and the central Ohio region, this class will introduce students to the array of theories and methods utilized by archaeologists to reconstruct past civilizations. In so doing, two primary objectives will be achieved. First, the multidisciplinary nature of this class will assist students in framing social issues from a multiplicity of perspectives and with a greater eye toward historical depth. Second, it will provide students with the necessary training in archaeology so as to facilitate their involvement in ongoing field excavations in the Mediterranean or here in the OhioValley.

Four main subject areas will be covered in the class. 1) We will analyze the theoretical concepts that drive archaeology. 2) We will undertake a survey of the methods used by archaeologists, including for example techniques such as scientific dating, environmental reconstruction, landscape analysis, historical population analysis, and mapping techniques. 3) Specific archaeological case studies will be used to introduce a variety of perspectives on how to understand vexing social issues such as settlement patterns and cultural interaction, urbanization, ethnicity, and environmental degradation. 4) We will discuss the use and misuse of the archaeological record for political purposes in today’s society. Though much of this class will be textually based, various field survey and excavation practicums throughout the semester will allow students to apply their knowledge of archaeological techniques.


Spring Term: 2008

Credits: 4

Fulfills: GE Requirement in Humanities (U)

Meeting times: 11:30-12:20 MWF

Instructor: John Oswald

Open to: First-years/Sophomores/Jrs/Srs