Aegean Civilisations B

Teacher(s)

Driessen Jan;

Language

English

Main themes

This course tackles specific questions and interpretative problems related to the reconstruction of social and political relations on the basis of archaeological data of Mycenaean Greece (ca. 2000-1100 BC) and the use of art and Linear B texts in this reconstruction.

Aims

At the end of this learning unit, the student is able to :
1	Advanced training for archaeologists interested in the Prehellenic and Greek Aegean. Develop critical thinking and methods of analysis of material culture; apply theoretical and anthropological concepts in archaeological interpretation. The course allows the student to develop and apply critical sense and interpretative methods on monuments and artefacts provided by Aegean archaeology in general and Mycenaean archaeology in particular.

Content

The course concentrates on the emergence and development of Mycenaean palatial society (2000-1100 BC).
We critically interrogate archaeological data of the different regions (Mainland, Islands, Cyprus, Asia Minor) that, at one time or another, were influenced by Mycenaean civilisation, highlighting parallels and differences. Information given by the Linear B tablets is also taken into account.
The topic also allows treating the destruction of Mycenaean palaces and the problems related to the beginning of the Dark Ages around 1200 BC (as well as the Sea Peoples).

Teaching methods

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the information in this section is particularly likely to change.

Mostly ex-cathedra teaching in English with visual aid by PowerPoint.
The course is complemented by a very dense visual illustration and documentation via academia.edu is provided.
Occasional intervention by postdocs and invited lecturers (in English).

Evaluation methods

Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the information in this section is particularly likely to change.

No end of term exams but continuous evaluation; students are also expected to prepare and present a critical analysis of a specific topic in class.
The evaluation is based on the scientific quality of the written text, the achievements shown (presentation, methodological approach, reasoning, bibliography, etc.) as well as the didactical character of the presentation (expression, clarity, documentation (PPT), references, mastering of the topic, etc.).
The presentation equals 60% of the points, the written work 30% and the involvement of the student in the discussions 10 %; Format: 8 to 10 pages (not including references or illustrations).

Bibliography

Suggested reading:
B. E. Burns, Mycenaean Greece, Mediterranean Commerce, and the Formation of Identity, Cambridge University Press, 2010.
J. Chadwick, The Mycenaean World, Cambridge University Press, 1976.
E. French, Mycenae: Agamemnon's Capital, 2002.
T.F. Tartaron, Maritime Networks in the Mycenaean World, Cambridge University Press, 2013.
 

Faculty or entity

ARKE