Newcastle University

Aims

This module will provide students with an in-depth knowledge of major themes in early medieval archaeology. We will study the sources and methods that are available to early medieval archaeologists such as archaeological excavation and survey, landscapes, artefactual studies, and historical documents. Drawing mainly on examples from Britain (but with reference to Europe and the Mediterranean region) we will explore key themes in early medieval archaeology to gain an in depth understanding of the period.

The aims of this module are:
1. To provide an advanced understanding of the sources and methods used by early medieval archaeologists.
2. To provide an in depth knowledge of key themes relating to the early medieval archaeology of Britain with reference to European developments.

Outline Of Syllabus

Introduction and background to early medieval archaeology
The end of Rome and the Migration Period
Early Anglo-Saxon settlements and burials
Late Antiquity and the western seaways
Kingship and the origins of kingdoms
‘Celtic’ realms of the North and West
Burials and monuments in the age of conversion
Churches and monasteries of Northumbria
Travel, trade and exchange
The origins of the medieval landscape
Rural society, defence and administration

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

1. Seminars will provide advanced knowledge and critical understanding of themes through presentation and in-depth discussion of detailed case-studies.
2. Tutorial to provide specialist guidance on preparation of assessed work.
3. Private study to provide in-depth understanding through background reading, preparation of seminar presentations, identification/collation/analysis of information for assessments.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Essays will assess ability to draw on a range of relevant data and published interpretations and critically analyse them in relation to one or more key themes in early medieval archaeology. They will also provide the opportunity to demonstrate an advanced ability to apply relevant analytical techniques (e.g. GIS; artefact analysis).

ERASMUS students at Newcastle One 2,000 word essay to be handed in by 12.00 p.m. of the Friday of the first week of the assessment period. This will replace all work required of domestic students. It remains the case that, if an ERASMUS student specifically requests that s/he be permitted to do the same assessments as the domestic students, that option remains open to them. No variation of the deadlines will be allowed except on production of medical or equivalent evidence.