The course aims to illustrate the methodological evolution of classical archaeology from antiquarian subject to art history and finally to a fully-fledged historical discipline, answering questions such as: when did sensitivity towards ancient remains and their protection begin? When and how did the institution called “museum” come into being (with particular reference to “archaeological museology”)? How did archaeology as a discipline originate and develop? What are the relationships between archaeology and other disciplines? What impact does archaeology have on contemporary societies?
Course Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of Greek and Roman history and civilisation. These classes, which are also open to modernist students, provide a historical and methodological introduction to the courses in archaeology included in the curricula for students of classical studies.
Teaching Methods
In-class lectures with PowerPoint presentations, and seminars with class readings and discussions of relevant texts and documents.
Assessment Methods
Oral examination. Students will be requested to critically analyse some historical/methodological topics debated in class and/or the recommended bibliography. Students who do not speak Italian can take the exam in English.
Texts
International students who do not read Italian can contact the lecturer to agree on a bibliography in English.
Contents
Taking a historical perspective, the course presents the genesis and development of the interest in archaeology, from its origins to the contemporary age. Through the analysis of collections, exhibitions and museum displays, the focus will be on the changes over time in the way of considering, protecting, studying and presenting antiquity, up to the outline of archaeology as a modern discipline.
