HIST 612A Archaeology for the Medieval Historian
Medieval archaeology, and in particular early medieval archaeology, is currently transforming our knowledge of the Middle Ages. New discoveries, new scientific techniques to interpret sites and new collaborations between historians and archaeologists are expanding our vision of the Middle Ages every day. This course seeks to prepare graduate students to understand and participate in this new research. We will read together several field reports, as well as studies by historians and archaeologists who seek to synthesize the new information revealed by recent excavations. Students will be introduced to the language and techniques of medieval archaeology, and will learn how to critique a field report, and how to integrate archaeological materials into historical research.