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The aim of this module is to provide a focus for graduate study in some of the areas of interest in the field of north-west European medieval archaeology.
It will cover all the major current themes in medieval archaeology, using examples of investigations mostly from Britain and Ireland as well as Scandinavia and will also take students’ interests and requirements into account.
Aims and Objectives of the module
This module seeks to introduce students to aspects of the archaeology of early medieval Britain during the period AD400-1200. The module is divided into two parts. Part One considers the development of rural settlement from the post-Roman period to the landscape of the Domesday Survey and after, and moves on to consider craft production, trade and the emergence of towns. Part Two aims to provide a detailed examination of traditions of burial and religion during the period and to examine processes such as the conversion to Christianity and its effect on the archaeological record. Each student will be expected to prepare and deliver seminar papers on relevant subjects of their choice.
On successful completion of this module a student should have an overview of the development of the English landscape over a long and complex period. Students should understand the nature of documentary evidence and its role in medieval archaeology and be able to critically assess aspects of historical narrative using archaeological evidence. Students should be able to apply a wide range of source materials and techniques to approach individual topics and themes and be familiar with the principal research resources for the period.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students should be able to demonstrate/have developed the ability to identify and examine specific problems using varied evidence. Preparation and delivery of individual student presentations should ensure the application of acquired knowledge and the development of oral presentation skills, whilst participation in both staff and student led seminars will enhance critical observation and reflection.
Teaching Methods
One weekly two-hour session will form the main method of teaching. Students are provided with a reading list for each seminar. Each seminar will be opened with a short presentation by the teacher to be followed by a detailed consideration of the topic in hand by students. Seminars have weekly recommended readings, which students will be expected to have done, to be able fully to follow and actively to contribute to discussion. In addition there will be a visit to the early medieval gallery at the British Museum to give students greater familiarity with the material covered in the module. Students will be required to give one individual presentation during the module, either at the end of Term I or at the End of Term II. Student seminar topics, which may be based on a theme chosen for one of the written assignments of the module.
Module information
- Code: ARCL0086
- Credits: 15
- Coordinators: Andrew Reynolds
- Prerequisite: This module does not have a prerequisite.
- Handbook: open»
For registered students
- Reading list: open»
Availability
- Running in 2023-24
