Anthropology: Archaeological Anthropology

Examination of the origins and development of culture from the earliest human fossils through the appearance of civilization; the nature of archaeological data and interpretations.

Open to degree and PACE students

**This is the renamed version of ANTH 1800 Prehistoric Archaeology** In this course, we will explore the cultures of our ancestors–their physical bodies, their technology and material culture, the way they organized themselves, and what they believed-as a way to better understand ourselves. We will take a global approach and consider case studies from the world over, and we will peer back in time to the days of the earliest humans. Course goals and objectives include: 1. Understand archaeology as a discipline (its history, theories, methods, aims, findings); 2. Comprehend major events in world prehistory, especially human evolution, the agricultural revolution, and the rise of civilization; 3. Explore important themes in human development, from technological growth and migration to climate change adaptations and sustainable subsistence practices; 4. Grasp the ethical concerns within archaeology and impacting archaeology; 5. Appreciate our role in preserving the past through research, stewardship, and advocacy.

This course will consist of lectures, in-class activities and discussions, and online assignments. Students should expect to spend ~4 hours a week on coursework outside class, with additional time allocated for the written assignments and in studying for exams.

Grades will be based on attendance and participation, weekly assignments, three non-cumulative exams, and a semester project.