During my reading, I really enjoyed learning about how the architectural style of houses or public spaces evolved. Particularly, the reading by Uytterhoeven explained how decorative floors or decor had been removed or built upon to be replaced by simpler construction. This reading and the piece by Howe used coins to help draw conclusions about dating, or whether historical events or inferences correlated. Learning how coins and architecture were used to commemorate the Roman emperors or to manifest culture was incredibly interesting, and I hope to be able to see how some of the artifacts or information we find can help create a better picture of the area’s history. Additionally, it is simply fascinating to know that some of the Roman emperors or elites were experiencing some of the same things that we will be able to see. I have always liked observing architecture, so I already know that I will be interested in that at the site, but I am excited to learn about how culture, success, or the occupying force may have influenced architecture. What may impress me the most are the mosaics that are present at sites like Antiochia and to think of how long ago and how different the circumstances were when the site was built and what led to the destruction/dilapidation of it.
I am interested in the concept of how spaces were laid out or constructed during that time and why they were constructed in that way. I took a class that discussed a little about how Russian Orthodox churches were laid and and what the significance of the choices were and found that incredibly interesting. The piece by Nevett displayed a concept like this in the Greek world that leads me to wonder how the people who constructed Antiochia chose its layout. I am also interested in learning how to date certain things such as soil and how to make inferences from what specific materials were used or by the information given by the characteristics of materials.
The first day in Gazipasa, I really want to see the ocean and explore the city. I don’t travel often and have never been outside the United States so my excitement level about getting to experience something incredibly new is very high. My goal is to try any new food or new experience that is offered (if it’s safe of course) because this opportunity is so special. I feel like getting to explore the city will help me gain perspective on how people live and thus how I can carry out my month in Gazipasa (and hearing the language!).