Geoanthropology, as defined by Renn J. (2020), aims to investigate the historical, contemporary and future dynamics of human interactions with their environment; the meeting point between the global set of technical systems and infrastructures created by humans and the geosphere is defined as the technosphere. The course aims to address these dynamics in the past and present and to provide the basic knowledge and methodological and interpretative approach to reconstruct the technological history of objects and productions, particularly archaeological and historical ones (pre-industrial and proto-industrial productions). The relationships that have influenced technical choices (know-how) and the use of raw materials (local resources) in the past will be defined.
Course Prerequisites
The course has a highly interdisciplinary character and links with other science, humanities and commodity teaching. It is conducted in such a way that it can be taken profitably by students without any prerequisite requirement. An open approach is required, particularly toward scientific and technical aspects concerning the relationships between archaeology, history and the use of natural resosources.
Teaching Methods
The course consists of lectures supplemented by in-depth seminars held by guest speakers with specific expertise on the topic covered. Educational workshops will address communication/transmission methods based on the educational potential of everyday objects or objects preserved in museums. The case study chosen for the exercises and workshops will concern an archaeological context.
Assessment Methods
At the end of some parts of the course a debate will be opened during which the essential points of the topics covered will be resumed in order to fill any gaps and clarify doubts. The active involvement of students will serve to increase their interest, to consolidate the topics covered and for the teacher to promptly check their level of learning. The exam will be carried out in oral form, the open questions will focus on the program of the course.
Texts
Jürgen Renn (2020). The Evolution of Knowledge_ Rethinking Science for the Anthropocene, Princeton University Press.
Joan Santacana Mestre, Nayra Llonch Molina (2022). Fare storia con gli oggetti. Metodi e percorsi didattici per bambini e adolescenti, Carocci ed., collana “I tascabili”, pag. 168, EAN: 9788874668984.
teaching materials provided by the lecturer.
Contents
The course will focus on the following topics: introduction to geoanthropology, definition and subject of study, relationship between humans and the environment throughout history, methodological approaches (archaeology, anthropology, geography); archaeometry, historical commodity science, geoanthropology; analytical techniques and investigation protocols for the study of historical and archaeological artefacts; archaeological ceramics and glass: reconstruction of the production cycle and traceability of raw materials; natural and synthetic pigments in painting: their use, traceability of sources of supply, market and trade in natural materials and pigments; use of minerals and stones for ornamental purposes: in ancient jewellery, in architecture, as raw materials. case studies: traditional societies and their management of resources.
Course Language
Italian
More information
The teacher is helpful for further explanations and informations.
