Archaeological Sciences

The course offers an overview of the archaeology and art history of pre-Islamic Iran. The most important archaeological and artistic evidence in Iran from the Iron Age III and the following Achaemenid, Macedonian, Seleucid, Arsacid and Sasanian periods will be illustrated and discussed in a historical-cultural perspective, taking also into account the geographical and ideological features which deeply influenced the socio-economic and cultural development of the investigated area.

A general knowledge of the history of ancient Iran would be welcomed although not compulsory

Scientific papers, monographs and other readings for the critical study of the discussed themes will be indicated at the end of each lesson. A specific and detailed bibliography will be indicated at the end of the course, including general additional readings for the students unable to attend the classes.

Lectures concerning specific issues related to the archaeology of pre-Islamic Iran, supported by multimedia presentations and followed by discussions aimed at developing the students’ methodological rigour and stimulating their critical reflexions. Multimedia presentations designed to summarise the main concepts discussed during each lesson and to display the analysed archaeological and iconographic evidence as well as related maps, plans and graphs will be used as teaching materials.

Lessons are taught in presence. On-line attendance will be possible only if strictly necessary.

Oral examination in English language for foreign students is available on request. Oral examination test aimed at assessing the degree of knowledge gained by students in the discipline (including related methodological issues and with particular emphasis on the chrono-geographic setting of the archaeological evidence discussed) and at evaluating additional competences such as the critical capacity to analyse and summarise themes and concepts or the confident and effective use of a specialist language, with appropriate terminology. In order to improve the discussion’s level, students are warmly invited to sit the exam provided with all the graphic and photographic materials put at their disposal by the teacher.

Scientific papers, monographs and other readings for the critical study of the discussed themes will be indicated at the end of each lesson. A specific and detailed bibliography will be indicated at the end of the course, including general additional readings for the students unable to attend the classes.

Lectures concerning specific issues related to the archaeology of pre-Islamic Iran, supported by multimedia presentations and followed by discussions aimed at developing the students’ methodological rigour and stimulating their critical reflexions. Multimedia presentations designed to summarise the main concepts discussed during each lesson and to display the analysed archaeological and iconographic evidence as well as related maps, plans and graphs will be used as teaching materials.