- Docente: Andrea Picin
- Credits: 3
- SSD: BIO/08
- Language: English
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Ravenna
- Corso: Second cycle degree programme (LM) in Science for the Conservation-Restoration of Cultural Heritage (cod. 8537)
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from Dec 01, 2022 to Dec 14, 2022
Learning outcomes
The course aims to provide the scientific knowledge on prehistoric lithic artefacts and technologies which are fundamental elements of our cultural heritage. A particular focus will be addressed to the material cultures of the last Neanderthals and early Homo sapiens in Europe. At the end of the course, the students will gain the necessary expertize to identify different types of stone materials, understand the rocks fracture mechanics, analyze prehistoric stone tools, and contextualize archaeological artefacts in their chrono-cultural position.
Course contents
introduction to lithic analysis; identification of stone raw materials; basics of prehistoric lithic knapping; the chaîne opératoire concept; terminology and typologies of lithic material; lithic artefacts attributes; cores, flakes, and stone tools attributes analysis; basic statistical concepts used in lithic analysis; refitting of stone materials; artefacts function; technological development from the Lower to the Upper Paleolithic; Neanderthals technological stasis and plasticity; Homo sapiens technological innovations.
Readings/Bibliography
Andrefsky, W. 2005. Lithics. Macroscopic Approaches to Analysis. Cambridge University Press.
Shea, J. 2017. Stone tools in human evolution: behavioral differences among technological primates. Cambridge University Press.
Teaching methods
The course consists of frontal lectures related to the topics of the programme that can be supplemented by seminars on specific topics. During the course PowerPoint presentations will be used, which will be supplied to the students by means of dedicated online platforms.
Assessment methods
Students must take an oral exam. The final vote is based on the scientific and methodological knowledge of the student on the arguments discussed during the exam. Correct use of language, coupled with critical examination of the covered topics and interdisciplinary linkage, will be also evaluated.
Students not attending. The program of the course is the same for both students attending and not attending. Owing to the nature of the course, frequency of the lessons is strongly recommended. However, students who for valid reasons cannot attend the course are invited to contact the teacher, during the office hours, for the suggestion of potential supplementary texts.
Teaching tools
Lectures will be given with the assistance of traditional supports, as well as slide and computer projections
Office hours
See the website of Andrea Picin