Course Description

This course explores the technological innovations of ancient peoples of the world. What types of technologies were created and developed in past cultures, and how do archaeologists discover and principles of those technologies? The class investigates topics including the mechanical and chemical principles utilized in different types of technology, the exploitation of natural resources, the role of various crafts in daily life, and the interaction between technology and culture.  We examine a wide variety of material culture, including ceramics, stone tools, composite hafted technology and perishable materials. We also focus on the methods used by archaeologists to investigate ancient technologies, and the principles of experimental research in archaeology.

St. Lawrence University, Spring 2015