Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2017 - ARCH 333 D100

Special Topics in Archaeology II (3)

Archaeology of Death

Class Number: 6688

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 4 – Apr 7, 2017: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 12, 2017
    Wed, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Hugo Cardoso
    hcardoso@sfu.ca
    778.782.4171
    Office: EDB 9621
    Office Hours: TBA

  • Prerequisites:

    To be announced.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

This course will be offered from time to time to meet special needs of students and to make use of specializations of visiting faculty members.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course examines the biological and cultural dimensions of the dead body, its treatment, disposal and decay that can elucidate archaeologists about mortuary behavior in the past. The course begins with a detailed consideration of methods and techniques of analysis, including ethnoarchaeology, archaeothanatology and taphonomy, followed by a review of the interpretive theories that have been used to reconstruct identity, social structure and spirituality in past societies. A survey of contemporary societies' funerary practices and attitudes towards death and burial will also be undertaken, as well as a consideration of ethical/moral and legal aspects of excavation, analysis, curation and memorialization of human remains.

Grading

  • In-class participation 10%
  • Group project 30%
  • Mid-term exam 30%
  • Final exam 30%

NOTES:

Prerequisite: ARCH 131 or by permission of instructor

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Mike Parker Pearson. The Archaeology of Death and Burial. Texas A&M University Press.
ISBN: 978-1-5854-4099-3

Additional readings will be assigned for each lecture and will be on reserve in the library or available online

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need classroom or exam accommodations are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Students with Disabilities (1250 Maggie Benston Centre) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.

Deferred grades will be given only on the basis of authenticated medical disability.


Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS