Prehistory covers over 99% of archaeological time and yet most of it still remains a mystery as our understanding depends on interpretation of what little evidence there is. With this proviso, this course will explore: how geology and climate contributed to the success of our species; the range and meaning of prehistoric art and how the ancients viewed the stars. It will explore each of the epochs of prehistory from the age of stone, to the ages of bronze and iron and the changes each had on human existence and behaviour. There will be ample opportunity for students to handle artefacts for each of the prehistoric periods discussed, many of which are rarely seen outside museums.
Course aim
The aim of this course is to give an overview of the six million years of prehistory whilst revealing that most archaeological theories of this period are based, at best on informed guesses or at worst, Bluffs!
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Understand the evolution of the human species.
- Distinguish the main archaeological epochs of stone, bronze and iron.
- Gain an appreciation of prehistoric art.
- Gain a view on how our prehistoric ancestors viewed the stars.
What else do I need to know?
Copies of presentations with detailed notes will be available on Canvas. Students may like to bring writing material should they wish to make supplementary notes.
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