Archaeological materials: ancient metallurgy
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| CLAR3103 | Classics and Archaeology | 3 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- CLAR3103
- School
- Classics and Archaeology
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
This module will provide an introduction to the study of ancient metal artefacts and metallurgy. Topics will include copper, silver and iron ores; mining; smelting; metal composition analysis; metallographic and use-wear analysis; isotopes and the provenance of metals. Emphasis will be given to specific case studies which will indicate how these prehistoric industries can be located within their social, technological and economic contexts.
Target Students
Archaeology SH and JH students, Archaeology MRes Students, Natural Sciences with Archaeology Pathway, Liberal Arts students
Classes
- One 2-hour seminar each week for 5 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 10 weeks
This module is taught via a series of lectures and seminars.
Assessment
- 80% Coursework: Essay 3,500 words.
- 20% Presentation: presentation
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
This module aims to provide the student with an introduction to the study of ancient metalwork and metallurgy, and its social, technological and economic context, and to acquaint students with a body of specialised data related to the raw materials of many of the most widely traded artefacts.Learning Outcomes
Have a clear understanding of those aspects of the ancient metalwork and metallurgy covered in the module
Understand the social, technological and economic context of ancient metalwork and metallurgy
Demonstrate knowledge of basic aspects of geology, mineralogy and metallurgical processes
Demonstrate knowledge of current debates in the study of ancient metallurgy
Present scientific, historical and social data as complementary sources of information
Order and present data cogently and effectively, in both an oral and a written context