CL 580SEM - Anc. Mediterran. Ceramics

“Roman Pottery - A systematic survey of the physical characteristics, chronology, technology/production, function, and cultural significance of the more common classes of pottery used in the Roman world, including tableware, cookware, utilitarian wares, and amphorae. Written assignments provide students experience in collecting information from the archaeological literature and writing this up in the form of reports. Ceramic Analysis - An intensive, hands-on introduction to some of the more important methods employed for the analysis of archaeological pottery and potting materials, including the analysis of the physical properties of clays, the evaluation of forming and surfacing procedures, the mineralogical and chemical characterization of pottery composition, the evaluation of pottery function, the quantification of pottery assemblages, and the evaluation of assemblage formation. Students complete a series of eight labs aimed at providing experience with the application of various analytical methods. They then apply the knowledge/experience gained in lectures/readings/labs to complete a research project involving the analysis of archaeological pottery and/or potting materials. Material Culture in the Roman World - An in-depth survey of material culture in the Roman world. The course aims to familiarize students with theoretical approaches to the consideration and study of material culture, the various categories of material culture produced by the Romans, the technologies employed for the manufacture of these items, and approaches to the description, analysis, and publication of Roman material culture. The course includes a visit to the Roman galleries of the Royal Ontario Museum, which contain the richest assemblage of Roman material culture on display in North America. Roman Ceramics and Small Finds - This class explores how objects found in excavations and in museum collections can be used to reconstruct aspects of ancient daily life. This includes not only ceramic sherds, the wrapping paper of the ancient world, but also objects composed of metal, wood, cloth and bone. These include, jewelry, elements of dress (hobnails etc.) dress ornaments, coins, tools, weapons, etc. The course includes a theoretical element on how ceramics and small finds are used by archaeologists, as well as a hands-on element, using originals and replicas from the department’s collection. A visit to a local museum and restoration workshop is planned to see how ancient artifacts are stored and treated. Other topics to be discussed include, antiquarianism, counterfeiting, the laws and ethics of the trade in antiquities, the new British portable antiquities scheme, metal detecting, and portable heritage management strategies. (Kiernan)”

Credits: 3