CLAS 453 - Research Methods in Classical Archaeology

This course explores how archaeological methods can be utilized to contribute to our understanding of the Greco-Roman world. Using a variety of archaeological case studies, it will cover traditional methods of investigation such as excavation and survey as well as recent approaches including technologically advanced remote sensing and dating techniques. The course will also consider how archaeology is best integrated with the many other types of evidence (e.g., inscriptions, papyri, coins, literary and documentary texts, etc.) found in the ancient Mediterranean. By the end of the course, students will understand how archaeology contributes to our historical knowledge and which methods are appropriate in a given context.