2017-18 Academic Catalog

We live in a world of states. Nearly every inch of the earth is clearly delineated on maps and plans, ascribed to a particular political authority. But the widespread availability of precise spatial information is relatively new in human history. This seminar examines archaeology beyond the site. How did ancient polities understand and demarcate territory? What tools can we use to understand this? We begin by examining theories of space, place, landscape, and boundaries. The second part of the course compares case studies from across the ancient world to explore archaeological approaches to territory and polity in greater detail. Prerequisite: At least one previous archaeology course, Classics 122, 123, 124 or Archeology 246; contact instructor to discuss other relevant courses.