Archaeology (Research): Human Origins

Human Origins provides an in-depth introduction into the European Palaeolithic record and its wider setting, from the earliest occupation of Europe to the earlier phases of the Upper Palaeolithic period. In addition, it focuses on current research on Neanderthal behaviour, with the aim of introducing students to current research questions, methods of analysis and theoretical perspectives in Palaeolithic archaeology. The Middle Palaeolithic site of Neumark Nord provides a case study introducing the characteristics of the record and methods of analysis.

Research

There are three main strands to research on Neanderthal behaviour at Leiden. The first is the study of the formation, chronology and environments of Middle Palaeolithic sites. The second involves reconstruction of Neanderthal behaviour, primarily on the basis of stone tools, fauna and spatial patterns. Finally, studies of the Neanderthal niche use theory and comparative data from disciplines such as evolutionary ecology, primatology and palaeoanthropology to address differences between the Neanderthal and anatomically modern human record.

Courses

In close association with colleagues studying Pleistocene environments, the two-year programme consists of a series of taught courses, seminars and activities centred around the research of the Human Origins group.

In Palaeolithic Europe: An Introduction, students obtain a thorough knowledge of the European Palaeolithic record by a mixture of courses, literature study and written assignments. This knowledge is further developed in courses dealing with Lithic technology, Pleistocene environments and stratigraphy and Ecology of the Mammoth Steppe. Students are also expected to participate in fieldwork of the department, currently focused on excavations of a Middle Palaeolithic site at Neumark Nord (Germany). We use these excavations to train students in Palaeolithic fieldwork and post-excavation techniques. Seminars and Thesis
Comparative data and theory from other disciplines such as ethnography, palaeoanthropology and behavioural ecology are discussed in research seminars (one each year) to help students understand the behavioural and cognitive adaptations of members of the human lineage, especially the Neanderthals. It is also in the context of this research that students have to develop a research plan for their thesis.

Staff

Staff responsible for the Research Master Specialisation in Human Origins: prof. dr. Wil Roebroeks