Archaeology of Late Antiquity: Pagans and Christians

The history of religious change is often told through biased texts, but the physical remains of the past offer a much more nuanced story. By examining the archaeology of Late Antiquity, you can uncover the reality of how daily life changed as Christianity became the dominant faith. This course provides a foundational understanding of the archaeological methods used to study the transition between religious worlds. You will learn to look beyond the narratives of constant conflict to see evidence of coexistence, adaptation, and gradual transformation in the material record. What you'll learn: - Define the historical and geographical scope of Late Antiquity. - Analyze the transformation of sacred spaces, including temples and early churches. - Understand the role of material culture in identifying religious identity and practice. - Compare archaeological findings with historical texts to identify discrepancies. - Examine how urban and rural landscapes were reshaped by changing beliefs. - Practice interpreting artifacts to distinguish between religious transition and cultural continuity. The course begins with essential terminology and the historical framework of the period before moving into specific case studies of archaeological sites and material remains. It is designed for beginners with an interest in history or archaeology and requires no prior knowledge of the subject. Start your exploration of the ancient world's religious evolution through the lens of archaeology.