Landscape Archaeology

Full course description

In this course, students will apply their science background to archaeology and practice more advanced archaeological analysis and interpretation. Whereas “Introduction to Archaeological Sciences” offered a broad survey of archaeological sciences, this course focuses on a single archaeological case study (chosen by the class from a list of possibilities). Students will not only explore the cultural, historical, social, political, economic, environmental, and technological background of that case study, but also the diverse scientific methods, techniques, and specialties that can be brought to bear to better understand it.

Much of the course will be focused on a single project: developing a program of archaeological field- and lab-work.[1] Students will first propose a set of research questions related to their case study. With this orienting their research, each tutorial group will then create a multidisciplinary research proposal aimed at answering those research questions. Because this is developed by the students, the students will also generate a unique list of readings, discussion topics, and tasks for the course.

By taking this course, students will gain a deeper understanding of archaeological research, analysis, fieldwork, sciences, ethics, and politics. They will also better appreciate how their scientific training can be applied to social, cultural, and economic topics and be positioned well to undertake more advanced interdisciplinary research – in archaeology or otherwise (e.g., BTR, MA thesis) – and/or participate in an archaeological fieldschool.

[1] N.B. We will not actually undertake the field project due to lack of permissions, etc.