Introduction to Archaeology

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

Students will be introduced to archaeological research, focusing on Classical Antiquity. The recovering of ancient monuments and artifacts by excavation is only one archaeological method to get information on the past. We will learn about radar surveys, aerial reconnaissance and underwater archaeology. The interpretation of stratigraphy and dating methods based on natural sciences (as C14, endrochronology, thermoluminescence), on historical data or on stylistic evidence jointly contribute to establish a chronology. Apart from fieldwork, the question remains what to do with the regained facts: We will see the changing interests of the discipline by an overview of the history of archaeology, from the first scientific excavations in the 18th century to new approaches in the last years. Finally, the presentation to the public (restoration, museums) and problems as illegal digging and trading will be discussed.