This module is concerned with the art and archaeology of Classical Greece (479–323 BC) and with the questions that arise from the study of these material remains. The emphasis will be on Classical cities (particularly Athens), and on how archaeology can help to improve our understanding of this crucial moment in Greek history. The module will also endeavour to combine traditional topics (e.g. sculpture, architecture, vase-painting) and modern concerns (e.g. gender and the household; burial and society; survey, landscape and the countryside).

• demonstrate a knowledge and critical understanding of the archaeological evidence of Classical date from excavations and surveys, and of the art of the period;
• demonstrate a knowledge and critical understanding of relevant textual evidence and an understanding of the relationship between written and material evidence;
• demonstrate a knowledge and critical understanding of the various debates that surround the interpretation of the art and archaeology of Classical Greece, and an ability to evaluate the evidence with reference to these debates;
• demonstrate an appreciation of the kinds of problems encountered when trying to interpret archaeological evidence and ancient art;
• discuss these issues in written work with coherent and logical arguments, clearly and correctly expressed.

20 lectures and 3 seminars; 1 field trip to the British Museum; independent study; 1 coursework feedback tutorial

The lectures present an outline of major topics and themes in Classical Greek art and archaeology, and provide a framework for the interpretation of the evidence by introducing the main debates that have shaped research into the subject. They should be thought of as a useful starting-point for further discussion and independent study. Slides and, where appropriate, handouts are used to illustrate the material discussed.

The seminars provide an opportunity for students to analyse and discuss key issues and topics in the module, and to get feedback on their ideas from the tutor and their peers. Handouts with material for study and suggestions for preparatory reading will be circulated prior to the seminars.

The museum trip is an opportunity for students to see major Classical artworks and artefacts at first hand, and to reflect on the way in which the Classical period has been studied and presented in the modern world. The work done on the trip is used as the basis for discussion in one of the seminars.

Independent study enables students to familiarise themselves with the primary source material and the most important modern debates on the subject. A reading list is provided, with guidance on key items of reading for major themes and lecture topics.

Coursework feedback tutorials provide students with an opportunity to get feedback and guidance on all aspects of their written work.

• observation and analysis of a variety of different types of archaeological evidence
• observation and visual analysis
• assimilating and synthesising complex information and ideas
• critical thinking skills, such as analysing and evaluating evidence, critiquing interpretations or arguments, and challenging assumptions
• constructing and defending arguments based on evidence
• clear, accurate and effective communication of ideas and arguments in writing and in debate
• employing basic skills and conventions in the presentation and use of archaeological evidence
• bibliographic and referencing skills
• team-working and contributing to group discussions
• using IT resources effectively
• independent working and time management

The module will be assessed through a 2000-word essay (50%) and an exam consisting of one essay question and one picture question, weighted 70:30 (50%).

The essay and exam questions will require knowledge and critical deployment of evidence and critical understanding of modern scholarship to answer questions and construct arguments relating to the art and archaeology of Classical Greece.

In the picture question, specific artefacts, buildings or sites from Classical Greece will be set, and students will have to assess their significance, thus deploying their knowledge of the material and of modern interpretations and debates.

The opportunity for reassessment in this module

Students who fail the module will normally be expected to re-sit the failed component(s) in the summer resit period.

• the development of monumental architecture, sculpture and vase-painting in the Classical period
• developments in town-planning and domestic architecture, and their relationship to social and political ideologies, such as democracy and gender
• public space and collective activities in the Classical city
• sanctuaries and religious practices in Classical Greece
• burial and society
• landscape, agriculture and the economy
• regional differences between Athens/Attica and other parts of the Greek Mediterranean

S.E. Alcock and R. Osborne (eds), Classical Archaeology (2^nd edition, 2012)

J. Bintliff, The Complete Archaeology of Greece: From Hunter-Gatherers to the 20th Century A.D. (2012)

R. Osborne, Archaic and Classical Greek Art (1998)
R. Osborne, Classical Landscape with Figures (1987)
J.J. Pollitt, Art and Experience in Classical Greece (1972)
J.J. Pollitt, The Art of Ancient Greece: Sources and Documents (1990)
T.J. Smith and D. Plantzos (eds.), A Companion to Greek Art (2012)

M. Stansbury-O’Donnell, Looking at Greek Art (2011)

A. Stewart, Classical Greece and the Birth of Western Art (2008)
J. Whitley, The Archaeology of Ancient Greece (2001)

See the module handout for the full reading list.