This is an introductory course to Archaeology in North-West Europe from pre-historic times up to the post-medieval period. The principal themes developed in the course take in a number of North European countries, but a great deal of reference is made to Archaeology in Belgium. By the end of the course, students will be aware of how Archaeology has developed both in Belgium and in its neighbouring countries. They will also be familiar with the most significant remaining evidence of the material cultures of those civilizations that left their mark on the North West of Europe from pre-historic times up to Modern Times.
Main themes
This course looks at Archaeology in North-West Europe, with a special section on its development in Belgium. It provides an overview of the methodologies and disciplines which have contributed to the expansion of Archaeology at a national and regional level. It examines the various civilizations and periods involved, in particular the material culture of these civilizations.
Content and teaching methods
This course aims to give students an overview of archaeological practice in Belgium and its neighbouring countries. The chronological framework takes students from prehistoric times to the post-medieval period. Different aspects of the old societies are taken up : origins, technologies, architecture, funeral practices, art, economy.