Greek Archaeology

Teacher(s)

Driessen Jan;

Language

French
> English-friendly

Prerequisites

/

Main themes

The course discusses problematic issues and specific problems of interpretation in relation with the use of archaeological sources for the reconstruction of social and political relations of the Iron Age Greek world (continental Greece, islands, Asia Minor, Magna Graecia) and the input art has on this reconstruction.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
1	Advanced course for archaeologists specialising in Greek Mediterranean archaeology. The aim is to develop a critical sense and analytical methods of material culture. Application of theoretical and anthropological concepts in archaeological interpretation.

Content

IThe course, with the title Sanctuaries and Politics in Archaic Greece, concentrates on the link between religion and the formation of the city-state (polis) in the differents regions of Ancient Greece. Apart from a detailed discussion of the most important sanctuaries (Olympia, Delphi, Delos etc) and settlements (Athens, Argos, Corinth, Eretria etc), this also allows us to discuss the incorporated symbolism of archaic and classical art and the role of the symposium since its origin up to the Hellenistic period. The theme also allows us to treat the various Athenian monuments in detail.

Teaching methods

Mostly ex-cathedra teaching in English with visual aid by PowerPoint. The course is complemented by a very dense visual illustration and documentation via academia.edu is provided. Occasional intervention by postdocs and invited lecturers (in English). Students are also invited to participate in the field trip in the Mediterranean (BAC 13 Séminaire sur site).

Evaluation methods

No end of term exams but continuous evaluation; students are also expected to prepare and present a critical analysis of a specific topic in class. The evaluation is based on the scientific quality of the written text, the achievements shown (presentation, methodological approach, reasoning, bibliography, etc.) as well as the didactical character of the presentation (expression, clarity, documentation (PPT), references, mastering of the topic, etc.). The presentation equals 60% of the points, the written work 30% and the involvement of the student in the discussions 10 %; Format: 8 to 10 pages (not including references or illustrations).

Bibliography

J. Whitley, The Archaeology of Ancient Greece, Cambridge World Archaeology, 2001

Faculty or entity

EHAC