2023/24 Neolithic of Europe Seminar

The Neolithic represents a profound change in human lifeways. In Europe, two major cultural unconformities bracket a span of at least three millennia of gradual cultural developments. In this seminar, students will discuss recent advances in the archaeology of the Neolithic period in Europe. Current research directions include mobility, kinship, violence, interactions between cultural groups, and the timing, pace, and duration of the 'Neolithization' process. On successful completion of this course, students will have an overview of current literature on the development of Neolithic societies in Europe, know the archaeological evidence and theoretical positions, and be able to form critical evaluations of current debates. Students will also develop the ability to read specialized literature, place a text in the general framework of scholarly discussion, and reflect critically on the connection between theories and archaeological data.