Archaeological Investigation: Pompeii and Herculaneum

In this course, we will become archaeologists and historians, using the tragically buried Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum to uncover the real daily life of the early Roman Empire. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79, a sudden deluge of ash and pumice froze a moment in time, preserving traces of life that are rarely—if ever—preserved at all. From opulent villas adorned with frescoes to the ephemeral details of street vendors, kitchens, and workshops, the ruins offer an unparalleled glimpse into the varied and vibrant rhythms of Roman society, capturing both the grandeur of the elite and the intimate routines of everyday people.

 

We'll dig into this evidence that brings these people back to life:

 

• Reading the Walls: Deciphering ancient graffiti for social gossip, political rants, and personal messages.

• Home & Hearth: Exploring lavish villas, crowded apartments, and the secrets hidden within city walls.

• Hidden Lives, Lasting Imprints: Uncovering the rarely preserved traces of Roman women, enslaved people, and other overlooked groups, offering a rare glimpse into the diverse, ephemeral realities of everyday life beyond the elite.

• The Big Picture: Combining archaeological finds (like skeletons and artifacts) with historical texts to form a complete, compelling story.