70765 - Archaeology of Production in Pre-Roman Italy

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, students have an in-depth knowledge of the various craft and artistic expressions of the pre-Roman cultures of the Italian peninsula and is able to contextualise them within the relevant historical framework; they are also able to assess the formal and stylistic development of these cultures in relation to the political and cultural milieu from which these productions originated, and to appreciate their functional use and intrinsic semantic value, often intended to convey a specific ideological message. Students are finally able to undertake independent and original research on the materials. In order to achieve this fundamental goal, essential methodological and bibliographic tools are provided during the course.

Course contents

The course, that will start on September 28th 2021, is divided into two modules: the first of 30 hours taught by Prof. Andrea Gaucci more closely related to historical and archaeological aspects; the second of 26 hours taught by Prof. Chiara Mattioli, more closely related to the theoretical-methodological aspects. The lessons schedule provides that the two teachers alternate in carrying out the lessons, being the two modules closely related to each other.

The course aims to provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge on the productive aspects of the archeology of the peoples of pre-Roman Italy, without excluding a broader view of the Mediterranean area and transalpine Europe.

A first lesson will aim to illustrate the articulation of the course, the program, the assessment methods and to offer the broader  historical and archaeological framework.

The following lessons will be divided into three parts:

Part I will illustrate the history and material culture of the Etruscans and the other peoples of pre-Roman Italy from the early Iron Age to Romanization (9th-1st century BC), with particular attention to the craftsmanship. The prevalence of the lessons in this part will be carried out by the teacher Andrea Gaucci.
Part II will focus on the more specific theme of the main artisan products (in particular ceramic, metallurgical, stone, pictorial), investigated in the context of production cycles, processing techniques and work organization. An introductory lesson will clarify the theoretical and methodological aspects of the discipline. The lessons of this part will be divided between the two teachers.
Part III includes laboratory activities, which will focus on learning the techniques of documenting archaeological finds, with particular regard to drawing. The prevalence of the lessons in this part will be carried out by the teacher Chiara Mattioli.

Readings/Bibliography

For a complete preparation, it is considered necessary to study the following texts:

G. Bejor, M. Castoldi, C. Lambrugo, E. Panero, Botteghe e artigiani. Marmorari, bronzisti, ceramisti e vetrai nell'antichità classica, Mondarori, Milano 2021, pp. 1-129.

L. Vlad Borelli, Profilo storico della tecnologia della pittura tombale etrusca, in A. Minetti (ed.), Pittura etrusca: Problemi e prospettive (Proceedings, Sarteano-Chiusi 2001), Siena 2003, pp. 140–153.

During the lessons other readings will also be suggested to deepen specific topics.

The first text is present in the Archeology library of DiSCi - UOS Ravenna. The remaining readings will be provided by the teachers.

Teaching methods

The course is organized in lessons and in a number of 16 hours dedicated to laboratory activities, which will be carried out also through seminars.

In consideration of the type of activity and the teaching methods adopted, the attendance of this training activity requires the prior participation of all students in the training modules 1 and 2 on safety in the study places, in e-learning mode.

Interested students will be able to integrate the teaching of the course with practical laboratory activities within the educational offerings proposed by the Department of History and Cultures with particular regard to the possibility of an excavation experience in the Etruscan city of Marzabotto,  and an experience of study, cataloging and drawing of archaeological materials. Please, follow the web pages of the teachers for further information.

Lessons start with an academic quarter, except for different needs discussed during the introductory lesson.

Assessment methods

Assessment consists of an oral examination based on three questions designed to evaluate students' knowledge of the history and development of Etruscan civilisation and the other pre-Roman cultures of Italy (Part I), as well as their ability to identify, interpret, and contextualise the principal categories of material culture and craft production (Part II).

The examination is intended to assess both the students' knowledge of the required bibliography and their understanding of the topics covered during the course.

The oral examination begins with three general questions, which lead progressively to a more focused and detailed discussion of specific themes addressed in the lectures.

The purpose of the examination is to evaluate the student's ability to apply acquired knowledge critically and to establish logical connections between different aspects of the subject. Final grades are awarded according to the following criteria:

• 18–19: Limited preparation covering only a small number of course topics; analytical skills demonstrated only with substantial guidance from the instructor; generally correct use of language.
• 20–24: Preparation covering a limited range of course topics; ability to carry out independent analysis only in relatively straightforward contexts; correct use of disciplinary terminology.
• 25–29: Good preparation across a broad range of course topics; ability to undertake independent critical analysis; confident command of subject-specific terminology.
• 30–30 with honours: Thorough and comprehensive preparation covering the course contents; ability to conduct independent critical analysis, establish meaningful connections between different topics, and develop well-structured arguments; excellent command of subject-specific terminology and a strong capacity for critical reflection.

Examination Sessions

For the 2027 academic year, examination sessions will be held in January, February, May, July, October, and November.

Students with Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) or Disabilities

Students with Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) or temporary or permanent disabilities are encouraged to contact the University's dedicated support service as early as possible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ). Appropriate accommodations may be proposed by the service and must be submitted to the instructor for approval at least 15 days before the examination. Any accommodations will be evaluated in light of the course learning outcomes.

International students, students with specific learning needs, and students with disabilities will be supported throughout the course and in preparing for the examination through individual meetings with the instructors, who will provide all appropriate resources and guidance to facilitate successful preparation. Students are encouraged to communicate any specific requirements at the beginning of the course or by contacting the instructors via email.

Use of Artificial Intelligence

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) during the assessment is strictly prohibited. Any use of AI tools during the examination constitutes a violation of the University's principles of academic integrity.

Teaching tools

Each lesson will be accompanied by presentation slides with a wide repertoire of images subsequently accessible through VIRTUALE.

Office hours

See the website of Andrea Gaucci

See the website of Chiara Mattioli