Prerequisites and basic notions

Prerequisites A general knowledge of the theories and methods of archaeological research is desirable, as well as knowledge of the specialist language used to describe lithic, ceramic and metal artefacts. This gap can be filled by reading the textbooks by Daniela Cocchi Genick, 2009 Prehistory, Qui Edit , ch.1 pp.11- 53 and Renato Peroni 1994 Introduction to Italian Protohistory, Laterza, pp. 62-102.

Program

Course programme
The course consists of two parts: 1) Synthesis of the main aspects of the the diffusion and establishment of the Metallurgy in the European continent, with a particular focus on the Italian peninsula; the following topics will be discussed: chronology, cultural aspects, technology, settlements, economy and symbolic behaviour; 2) close examination of Cupper Age, Bronze Age and Iron Age aspects in agreements with students.
Didactic methods
The course is articulated into lectures and seminars. The topics covered in the sessions will be supported by individual and group presentations aimed at promoting the active participation of students. Lectures can be integrated with visits to archaeological exhibitions and sites.

Bibliography

Didactic methods

The course consists of a series of lectures accompanied by specially produced teaching materials.
There will be 1 to 3 seminars with external experts who will explore individual topics in depth.
Guided visits to museums and workshops on experimental archaeology and the use of GIS will be organised.

Learning assessment procedures

The examination is an oral interview, both for Italian and English students. There will be questions concerning general topics; questions concerning some specific topics that are part of the programme; chronological and cultural definition of some archaeological items from a table of drawings/pictures. A short written paper (tesina) will be presented by the student.

Evaluation criteria

The following will be assessed
1. knowledge acquired through the course;
2. expository competence;
3. the ability to make connections and formulate autonomous judgements;
4. effective participation, if the student is attending, in the proposed workshop and teaching experiences.

Criteria for the composition of the final grade

The first part of the interview, in which the student presents an in-depth study of his/her choice, will be evaluated 15/30; the questions in the second part will be evaluated 15/30. Actual participation in the workshops and in the proposed visits and experiences, if the student is attending, and the ability to reason about them, will be a significantly positive element in the assessment.

Exam language

italiano, inglese se necessario