Admission requirements
Admission to the RMA Archaeology programme.
Description
The research seminar for the* Tranformation of the Roman World* research master deals with a different topic each year. In the past years we focused on the import of exotic objects in northern Merovingian Gaul and the analysis of ‘privileged (rich) burials’ and the scientific research of glass vessels and pottery.
The analysis of material culture remains an important element in the study of economic transformations and exchange systems in Late Roman and Early medieval times. Various types of material provide their own insights into these transformations and they do not necessarily match.
This year we will focus (in relation to the participating students' preferences) on specific categories of (exotic) material culture. Again we will look at these materials from different perspectives (archaeological and scientific).
The research seminar will also be related to the new ERC Advanced project ‘Rural Riches’ to which you are expected to contribute.
Guest lectures will deal with specific topics. Excursions are part of the course.
Course objectives
The course will contribute to the qualifications of a research master as formulated by the Faculty of Archaeology (see the document provided on BlackBoard). More specifically this course contributes to domains A1 and A2, B1, C2, C3, E1-E8.
The main course objectives are:
Developing the ability of critical assessment of current research on the topic;
Expanding on the knowledge of material culture of the late Roman and early medieval periods;
Developing theoretical knowledge related to the analysis of production and exchange;
Developing skills in argumentation and reasoning;
Developing skills in presentation of research (writing and presentation);
Developing teamwork skills.
Timetable
Course schedule details can be found in the RMA and RMSc time schedule.
Mode of instruction
Tutorial, in which the results of group members will be presented and discussed. There will also be staff presentations on specific topics.
Course load
The course load will be distributed as follows:
Classes, workshops, laboratory work (5 ec);
Literature (3 ec);
Assignments (2 ec).
Assessment method
Essay and deliverables (essay, databases, reports etc.) (80%);
Participation (20 %).
All assessment deadlines (exams, retakes, paper deadlines etc.) can be found in the RMA and RMSc examination schedule.
Reading list
A reading list will be distributed during the meetings.
Registration
Registration for the course or the exam is not required.
Contact
For more information about this course, please contact prof. dr. F.C.W.J. Theuws.