ANT 240 - Hollywood Archaeology

Archaeology is the systematic study of the past, particularly (but not exclusively) for times and places when and where writing did not exist. Many people find the ancient past romantic and exciting. Consequently, many movies purport to be about, or to involve, archaeology and archaeologists and/or the prehistoric past. Very often, movies propagate perspectives on the past and on the practice of archaeology that diverge widely from what archaeologists do and have learned. Often, movies portray archaeologists acting unethically. In this class, we will discuss the use and abuse of archaeology in Hollywood movies, how to recognize inappropriate and unethical archaeological behavior, what sort of stereotypes about archaeology and archaeologists these movies transmit, and how film might be a medium for a better presentation of archaeology and prehistory. If this course was taken as a topics course in ANT 290, it cannot be repeated for credit.

Course Typically Offered: Spring

Credits: 3