This course will focus on the environmental history of the Near East based on palynology and the study of plant macro remains. The following topics will be dealt with:
the climatic change in the early Holocene and its impact on the vegetation;
the reconstruction of past vegetations with special emphasis on grazing pressure;
the transition to agriculture with special emphasis on the process of plant domestication.
Admission requirements
Some basic knowledge of the geography and general archaeology of the Near East.
Learning objectives
Understanding of the following topics: (1) the climatic change in the early Holocene and its impact on the vegetation; (2) the reconstruction of past vegetations with special emphasis on grazing pressure; (3) the transition to agriculture with special emphasis on the process of plant domestication;
Is able to critically assess current research and literature on this subject and voice one’s well-argumented opinion;
Is able to critically analyse the theories and methods used to come to views on these processes,
Is able to critically apply the theories and methods on a casy study, find relevant literature and present this via a powerpoint presentation and is able to handle a stimulating discussion afterwards;
Is able to write a paper on his/her research topic, with expression of a critically assessment of the literature and one’s own well-argumented opinion, making use of the feedback received with the presentation.
Method of instruction
Seminar.
Examination
Active participation in class discussions, student class presentation, and essay.