After reading and learning about the way that houses and households were set up, I am most excited to see this as it translates into the real world, and be able to better understand how these worked first hand. Although it was fascinating to learn about the styles of Greek and Roman houses as well as how the cities were set up, I think that being able to see these ideas personally will be a unique and unforgettable experience. I think it will be especially interesting to see how a typical city was set up and organized during that time, especially as it will be interesting to compare it to the culture and environment of both modern day Gazipaşa, as well as to what I am used to back where I live.
I am most excited to better understand how people lived during this time, and to know more about what little things made their lives “normal,” like where and how they cooked, what relationships with other members of the community was like, and in general how life was. As a Psychology major, I find these things fascinating, especially how these smaller things form together to create a cohesive picture of life during that time. I think better understanding the people and their daily lives will not only be interesting, but provide an unique perspective on a time and place that is very different from what I live in, and so I am curious to learn more about it!
Before the Dig starts, I really want to be able to just walk around Gazipaşa and experience the city. I think being able to see it in person– the buildings, the roads, and how it is situated on the sea– will be amazing to experience. I have not traveled as much as I would like, and I think looking out at the sea will be especially fun as a result. I also hope to be able to try out the food in the area, as I think trying new foods is always something exciting, and will help me better understand the place and the culture that surrounds this place. Ultimately, I am excited to just experience Gazipaşa in any way that I can, as I believe it will be an enriching experience, made even more meaningful when coupled with the exploration of history that we will do during our time there.