AR2M3-Post Roman and Early Medieval Europe
Module Provider: Archaeology
Number of credits: 20 [10ECTS credits]
Level:
5
Terms in which taught: Autumn and Summer
Module Convenor: Dr
G
Thomas
Pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2009/0
Email: gabor.thomas@reading.ac.uk
Aims:
The module aims to give students a basic understanding of the nature of this transitional period between the collapse of the Roman Empire and the rise of medieval states. In particular, it aims to make students appreciate the use of various types of complementary evidence to infer the cultural and social dynamics of this period.
This is a single-term module which provides an overview of western and northern Europe in the Early Middle Ages (AD 400-1000), focusing on an understanding of the transitional and formative nature of this period. It is taught in lectures supplemented by seminars, and is examined through an essay and a written examination.
Preparatory reading:
D.M. Wilson (ed.) 1980. The Northern World. London: Thames & Hudson.
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module, it is expected that the student will be able to:
Additional outcomes:
The seminars encourage students to develop their oral skills, presenting and defending particular arguments. The requirement to search for and locate information will provide opportunities for students to apply and develop their IT skills.
Outline content:
The module provides an overview of early medieval western and northern Europe, c. AD 400 - 1000. At the beginning, the students are introduced to the main terminology, concepts and models of early medieval archaeology, and given an insight into the nature of 'Barbarian' societies outside the Roman Empire. The main block of lectures deals with key themes of the post-Roman and early medieval period in Europe: migrations, settlement, economy, society, religion, and art. Seminars are used to explain and discuss the nature and use of textual and place-name evidence in relation to the archaeological evidence of the period.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Illustrated lectures; two seminars in smaller groups, with structured discussion based on set reading. There is a revision class in the Summer term.
Contact hours:
| Autumn | Spring | Summer | |
| Lectures | 16 | ||
| Tutorials/seminars | 4 | 2 | |
| Practicals | |||
| Other contact (eg study visits) | |||
| Total hours | 20 | 2 | |
| Number of essays or assignments | 1 | ||
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
Assessment:
Coursework
Students will write one essay of c.3000 words. The mark for this essay will be counted towards assessment. The essay must be submitted in the Autumn Term on a date set by the Department.
Relative percentage of coursework: 40%
Penalties for late submission
Penalties for late submission of course work will be in accordance with University policy.
Examinations
One unseen two-hour paper, to be taken at the time of Part 2 examinations.
Requirements for a pass
A mark of 40% overall.
Reassessment arrangements
Re-examination in August/September.
Last updated: 23 November 2009