Overview

1. Introduction: experimental archaeology today and its links with ethnoarchaeology
2. The history of experimental archaeology
3. Experiment by design: designing experiments, recording data and methodology
4. Prehistoric metallurgical practices: copper and bronze production
5. Stone and flint technologies; production and use-wear analysis
6. Prehistoric metallurgical practices: iron production
7. Food production: cooking with stone and food storage pits
8. Making prehistoric roundhouses
9. Cremation pyres: a case study on Early Bronze Age practices
10. Taphonomies: understanding the formation of the archaeological record through experimental archaeology
11. Experiencing experiments and materials; revision lecture

Learning Outcomes

• Critically assess the role of archaeological ‘reconstruction’-sites in the production of archaeological interpretation.

• Critically evaluate the historical development of experimental archaeology;

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the role of material culture theory, ethnography and ethno-archaeology in the construction of archaeological interpretations.

• Demonstrate knowledge, critical understanding and theoretical grounding in the scientific and experiential use of experiments within archaeological research.

• Evaluate the utility and characteristics of a range of materials including ceramics, stone, metals and organic materials, via a range of experimental case-studies.

• Plan experiments in the technologies and processes of the past, from the acquisition of raw materials to manufacture, use and discard; and to post-depositional processes.

• Show and critically assess how experimental reconstruction can assist with the creation of archaeological narratives, and specifically assist with the (re)construction of ancient technologies, material culture practices and dwelling practices.