Introduction to Roman Archaeology
Ancient Rome and its monuments have inspired many — artists and armies, writers and rebels, scholars and cinematographers — to create images of ruthless emperors, downtrodden slaves, or gluttonous diners. But were the real Romans similar to today"s Hollywood stereotypes? And who else lived in Italy and what did they contribute? What was life like in Pompeii and other Roman towns? What did they really think of gladiators?
One goal of this class will be to acquaint students with the chronological development of the Romans and their artistic and architectural styles. But a no less important task will be to familiarize students with the role of archaeological material in illuminating social and cultural history. To accomplish the first goal we shall progress from Prehistory to the Fall of the Roman Empire in the fourth, fifth, and sixth centuries CE. To meet the second, we will pause to examine thematic topics such as "Urbanism", "Identity", and "Imperialism".
Course Requirements:
2 exams, 2 short papers, discussion section quizzes and assignmentsIntended Audience: All undergraduates
Class Format: 2 lectures per week, discussion section
Meets with ARCHAM 222.001 (home department)