Osteometrical anaysis
Fantastical animals on an Iron Age saddle
from Pazyryk, South Siberia
Medieval skull from Kilroot
ARP3004 - The Archaeology of Animals and Humans
Module content
The module consists of aspects of the history of animals and humans under a series of interrelated themes. Aspects of this history of several species will be studied along with the history of meat consumption, livestock management and the role of animals in ritual and religion. The module considers the information that can be gained from the study of human remains from archaeological contexts under such themes as disease, disability and warfare. The module will comprise a series of lectures and practicals. The lectures will deal with a variety of themes covering a wide range of areas and periods. The practicals shall provide an introduction to the study of human and animal bones and equip the students with some of the basic techniques of identification and the estimation of age and sex.
Module objectives
- To provide students with an appreciation of human and animal bone studies.
- To introduce certain contentious themes in osteoarchaeology.
- To demonstrate the importance of multidisciplinary research.
- To give students an opportunity to critically evaluate scientific reports/papers.
- To enable students to gain competence in the communication of ideas and arguments to others.
Assessment
Exam |
40% |
| Animal Bone Practical Portfolio | 35% |
Human Remains Class Test |
25% |
Lecturers
Dr. Eileen Murphy
Dr. Finbar McCormick
Skills taught
- Analysis and interpretation of raw data.
- Understanding of the basic techniques of the study of human and animal bones.
- Verbal and written self-expression.
- Critical analysis of reports/papers.
