HST411 Funerary Archaeology

15 credits, Semester two
Module leaders 2024-25: Hugh Willmott

Module summary

This module provides an advanced level exploration of human responses to death in societies around the world. Delivered through a series of themed lectures and seminars, case studies focus on the nature and interpretation of the burial record, and survey the methods of analysis, theoretical underpinnings and material residues of funerary ritual helping the student to develop a broad knowledge of burial rites and a nuanced understanding of the discipline of funerary archaeology.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, you will be able to:

Demonstrate detailed, advanced knowledge of the evidence, chronological frameworks, key debates and theoretical approaches relevant to the study of funerary archaeology
Critically evaluate competing interpretations of the archaeology of death and burial, and situate these within the broader context of changing perspectives in archaeology
Develop fresh critical perspectives and contribute to current research debates concerning funerary archaeology
Present cogent, evidence-based arguments in seminars and written contributions

Assessment methods

Assessment type - % of final mark

1,000 word essay - 30%
2,000 word essay- 70%

You will complete essays of 1,000 and 2,000 words on topics related to one of the module's key themes.

Additional learning and teaching information

Teaching and indicative seminar plan:

The module will be taught in six, two-hour seminars and four, one-hour seminars. Additionally, three hours will be dedicated to fieldwork.