This biannual learning unit is being organized in 2026-2027
Teacher(s)
Language
French
> English-friendly
> English-friendly
Main themes
Based on the analysis of archaeological sources, the course addresses in-depth questions and topical issues relating to the organization of prehistoric and protohistoric Aegean societies. The material culture and artistic productions of Minoan Crete (ca. 2600-1200 BCE) and Mycenaean Greece (ca. 1700-1200 BCE) are presented and placed in their political, socio-cultural and economic context.
Learning outcomes
At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to : | |
| 1. Identify and contextualize material and artistic productions of prehistoric Aegean societies; 2. Provide a cross-disciplinary analysis on various themes related to the course (daily life, material and artistic productions, economic and social organization, cultural interactions) by combining historical, archaeological, stylistic, technical, cultural and anthropological considerations. 3. Conduct a personal research as an extension of the course. |
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Content
The course alternates between sessions that consider a diachronic and contextualized analysis of archaeological data relating to different regions of the Aegean for each period of the Bronze Age, and thematic sessions that deeper explore certain sites, or specific material or societal issues (e.g. human/environment relations; technological traditions and social practices; gender division and age classes; archaeothanatology and traumatology, etc.).
Teaching methods
The course consists of lectures supplemented by personal reading and oral presentations by students. The latter will open to discussions in which all the students will take an active part.
External experts from UCLouvain or other institutions will occasionally give talks on recent research topics.
During the 26-27 academic year, guest speakers will join us to discuss Minoan architecture and urbanism, experimental archaeology, and archaeothanatology, with a focus on children burials.
External experts from UCLouvain or other institutions will occasionally give talks on recent research topics.
During the 26-27 academic year, guest speakers will join us to discuss Minoan architecture and urbanism, experimental archaeology, and archaeothanatology, with a focus on children burials.
Evaluation methods
In addition to continuous assessment (active participation in class, including group discussions and contributions to discussions following student presentations), the course assessment comprises two components. The first component is an oral presentation (either individual or in pairs, delivered in French or English) on a specific research topic related to a previous lecture (from a set of prescribed topics or themes). Students are expected to provide an in-depth analysis of an agreed subject and to identify key debates in the field in order to stimulate discussion among their peers (40%). Attendance and active engagement in discussions are taken into account in the assessment. The second component is an oral examination held during the examination session. This consists of the presentation of an original piece of independent research conducted by the student, followed by a discussion with the lecturer, linked to the topics and questions addressed throughout the course (60%). This work, the requirements of which are explained during the semester, may be presented in either French or English. An outline and an initial formulation of the research question must be submitted during the semester and will be taken into account in the final assessment.
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) must be used responsibly and in accordance with the practices of academic and scientific integrity. As scientific integrity requires to cite sources, the use of AI must always be reported. The use of artificial intelligence for tasks where it is explicitly prohibited will be considered as cheating.
Online resources
Moodle platform, with course PWP and supplementary reading lists
Bibliography
- C. W. Shelmerdine (ed.), The Cambridge Companion to the Aegean Bronze Age (Cambridge 2008).
- J. Driessen, I. Schoep, R. Laffineur (eds), Monuments of Minos. Rethinking the Minoan Palaces (Aegaeum 23), Liège & Austin, 2002.
- B. E. Burns, Mycenaean Greece, Mediterranean Commerce, and the Formation of Identity, Cambridge University Press, 2010.
- T.F. Tartaron, Maritime Networks in the Mycenaean World, Cambridge University Press, 2013.
- R. Treuil, P. Darcque, J.-C. Poursat et G. Touchais, Les civilisations égéennes du néolithique et de l'âge du bronze, Paris, coll. « Nouvelle Clio », 2008
- J.-C. Poursat, L'art égéen : 1, Grèce, Cyclades, Crète jusqu'au milieu du IIe millénaire av. J.-C., Paris, Picard, 2008.
- J.-C. Poursat, L'art égéen : 2, Mycènes et le monde mycénien, Paris, Picard, 2014.
- A.-L. Schallin & I.Tournavitou (eds), Mycenaeans up to Date: The Archaeology of the North-Eastern Peloponnese - Current Concepts and New Directions, Stockholm, 2015.
Faculty or entity
Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)
Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
Master [120] in Ancient Languages and Literatures: Oriental Studies
Master [60] in Ancient Languages and Literatures : Oriental Studies
Master [120] in History of Art and Archaeology : General
Master [120] in Ancient Languages and Literatures: Classics
Master [60] in History of Art and Archaeology : General