Archaeology of Italy and the Roman Provinces [ LARKO2370 ]

Pdf of Course and bibliography.

None.

The course discusses problematic issues and specific problems of interpretation in relation with use of archaeological sources for the reconstruction of social and political relations of Rome, since its fundation (8th century BC) up to the High Middle Age, Italy and Roman provinces. Especially considered are elements of urbanism, architecture and construction techniques in order to define a scheme of the Roman way of life throughout the ages.

Advanced course for archaeologists specializing in Roman archaeology whether of Italy, the centre of power, or of the provinces of the Empire. The aim is to develop a critical sense and apply methods of analysis of art (painting, sculpture and architecture) and material culture of this millennium long civilization reluctant of all standardized analytical approach. Use of theoretical and anthropological concepts in archaeological interpretation as well of literary and epigraphical sources of Latin Antiquity.

Written examination.

A combination of ex-cathedra lessons by the teacher or invited speakers and seminars. The sessions are prepared by the students on the basis of one or more articles of which the list is given at the beginning of the year. The students are also invited to participate actively in certain sessions which may take the forms of seminars prepared by the students. Possibility to organize a study tour abroad  with presentations by students and introduction to field work.

The course views the analysis of the cultural history of the Roman provinces within the historiographical concept of Romanization. The major axes are artistic production and material culture.
The course intends to explore the monuments "à flèche" since their birth in Asia Minor (IV s. B.C.) until final transformation in Roman Germany (III s. A.D.). The course objective is to provide a summary analysis but also specific examples of Greek, Italic, Roman and provincial funerary monuments to understand gains, political, economic and social values.

The scientific method adopted will therefore focus on the comparison of anthropological approach as socio-political and religious issues.

Bibliography provided by the teacher.

None.