Domestic, Symbolic and Funerary Monuments in Prehistoric Europe

Overview

This module explores prehistoric monuments belonging to the world of the living, of the dead, and of their symbolic aspects. The lectures will focus on the architecture of these monuments on their roles the changing ritual and belief systems of past societies and on their relation to the environment. The geographical scope of the module ranges from Ireland to the Mediterranean and encompasses all of prehistory, based on specific case studies.

Learning Objectives

A sound knowledge of aspects of European Prehistory
- An understanding of the role of megalithic monuments in the organisation of past societies
- A critical understanding of theory and methods relating to the study of monuments, landscapes and rituals
- An understanding of approaches to the systematic study and interpretation of prehistoric art and material culture
- An understanding of anthropological and social theory relating to ritual, religion and art
- An appreciation of changing methods, approaches and interpretations of archaeological sites

Skills

Identifying, recording and interpreting monuments and ritual landscapes
- Recognising different classes of prehistoric art and architecture
- Critically analysing primary and secondary archaeological data, site plans and landscapes
- Research skills
- Report and essay writing

Assessment

None