Archaeological Research and Methods
These courses allow for the opportunity to both learn and practice the methods of archaeology. They cover not just the actual digging techniques, but also the ethical questions and various theories prevalent in modern scholarship.
CLASS 253: Classical studies in Italy (Interim 2018)
This course provided background both on Roman history and archaeological sites. A fair amount of our time was spent at various archaeological sites, learning about history specifically through the material remains. This taught the practical applications of physically identifying various components of an archaeological site, as well as familiarity with various aspects common in Mediterranean excavations.
ID 294: Archaeological Internship in Turkey (Summer 2018)
This internship created the opportunity for hands-on learning about archaeological methods, as well as insight into the workings of an archaeological site. I learned the diverse strategies of archaeology, including how to build an argument utilizing the evidence from the site. Also, this internship supplies practice in identifying various structures and artifacts found within the mediterranean world.
Independent Research: Roman Religion (Interim 2019)
This Independent Research, done in collaboration with Professor Howe, will focus on the various Roman religions prominent within Classical Rome. This investigation into the different practices which flourished in Rome will involve a study into both the texts and the material culture.
My final research paper analyzed Christian persecution narratives throughout the Roman Imperial period and the issue of reading Christian texts within their own genres. Linked here: Manipulation Topoi in Christian Persecution Narratives
HIST 396: Archaeology Methods (Spring 2019)
This course will provide a research opportunity to gain further experience with analyzing, synthesizing, and writing about archaeological evidence. It also discusses the theories concerning archaeology that are on the forefront of scholarly debates.
The final research paper for this class investigated Christian use of spolia in late antique basilicas in Rome. Linked here: Power Dynamics of Spolia in Early Medieval Church Buildings