This course will explore the role of art, architecture, and material culture in the governance of the Roman Empire. It will study in particular the ways in which material remains inform us about issues of aesthetics, colonialism, cultural identity, and local difference. We will focus on archaeological sites in the provinces of the Roman Empire where the University of Michigan has done or is currently doing archaeological excavation and field survey. These include, among others, Carthage in Tunisia, Antioch of Pisidia in Turkey, and Sepphoris and Tel Anafa in Israel. Lectures, class discussion, and research projects will focus, when possible, on artistic, archaeological and archival materials in the Kelsey’s collections in anticipation of the opening of the Upjohn Exhibit Hall in Fall 2009. Materials to be on display include mosaics, stone and terracotta sculptures, pottery vessels and lamps, glass vessels, coins, and items of personal adornment. One objective of research projects will be to develop information on the exhibits and modes of presenting it to museum visitors. Grading will be based on class participation (attendance and discussion of assigned readings), a research project, a midterm and a final examination. Estimated cost of materials: less than $50.

Instructor: Elaine Gazda
email:gazda@umich.edu

Tuesday and Thursday
10:00am - 11:30am
180 Tappan
3 Credit Seminar