107-232 Interpreting the Past

Is archaeology an art, craft, science or all three? This course will provide an introduction to the labyrinth of '-isms', which comprise contemporary archaeological theory and provide students with a framework for interpreting archaeological data. It will include a survey of the "New" Archaeology as characterized by an emphasis on positivism, and adaptive behaviours and focus on the critical response to this approach known as post-processualism. Although post-processualism began with an interest in structuralism (identifying the underlying themes that give structure to culture) it has since become a catch-all phrase that stands for a plurality of approaches. We will survey these approaches, which include contextual archaeology, social theory, gender studies, and post-modernism (critique of modernism). We will also examine the historical context of these approaches, the European and Australian response to them, and look at some case studies in order to evaluate their merits.

• be skilled in critical thinking and analysis;

• possess effective written communication skills;

• have an understanding of social, ethical and cultural context.

A journal assignment (browsing articles and summarising one) of 500 words 10% (due in week 3), a class paper/essay of 2000 words 45% (including a 7-10 minute presentation, commencing at beginning of semester and due at end of semester), a take-home exam of 1500 words 35% (distributed at the end of semester) and tutorial participation 10% (throughout the semester). Hurdle requirement: students must attend at least 75% of tutorials in order to be pass this subject.

• M Johnson, Archaeological Theory: An Introduction. Blackwell Publishers 1999.
• I Hodder, Reading the Past. Cambridge University Press 1991.