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Lorenzo Nigro

Which are the deepest roots of that mix of cultures that we use to call ‘Mediterranean Civilization’? Which are comminglings and exchanges which produced its most complete fruit, i.e. the city, a place for landscape-modelling communities? And which elements did contribute to build up that baulk of customs, ideas, and innovations which compelled to confrontation and hybridizations different peoples for millennia? What did it made, from pottery to metallurgy, from gastronomy to architecture, from art to religion, of a sea a cradle of civilization? Archaeology may help in disentangling such questions, seeking unexpected answers , by tinkering what ancient Mediterranean peoples left buried in the ground. A privileged point of view of our course is the ancient Phoenician city of Motya, located exactly at the centre of the “sea in the middle”. Throughout the live experience of excavation, with images taken on the field, this course will let you touch the many tesserae of the great mosaic of the Mediterranean Civilization. The field diary of the archaeologist, and the handpick will be the two tools, which will lead us across the sea to discover what such early cities actually were, and how their contribute is still a major part of our shared memory.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Towards the West
Concept of the city
Discovering Motya
Read more
Life and Ideology
Stars sparkling in the waters
An Identity to share
A changing society
Portrait of an harbour city

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides an in-depth analysis of the development of the Mediterranean Civilization, making it suitable for students interested in history and archaeology
Examines various aspects of Mediterranean Civilization, including its origins, exchanges, and innovations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the topic
Led by Lorenzo Nigro, an experienced archaeologist specializing in Mediterranean Civilization, providing learners with access to expert insights
Involves hands-on excavation experiences through images taken on the field, allowing for a practical understanding of archaeological methods
Focuses on the archaeological perspective, providing a unique lens through which to explore the Mediterranean Civilization

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Reviews summary

Archaeology of the mediterranean civilization: origins of the city

According to students, this course offers engaging assignments that explore the origins of Mediterranean civilization through the archaeology of the city. It spans from the 3rd to 1st millennium BC. Reviews are largely positive, highlighting the well-paced lectures and informative materials. Learners say Professor Nigro is passionate and knowledgeable, although some note his difficult-to-understand English. The course covers various topics, including the Phoenician settlement of Motya, urbanism, trade, and cultural exchange in the Mediterranean region. While some express concerns about language barriers, overall, students recommend this course to those interested in archaeology, history, and the development of Mediterranean culture.
Professor Nigro is a passionate and knowledgeable instructor who conveys information exceptionally well.
"Professor Nigro is engaging and conveys information exceptionally well."
"Professor Nigro is a great investigator!"
"I love the teacher and the course was really great."
The course provides a comprehensive overview of the origins of Mediterranean civilization, focusing on the archaeology of Motya.
"This course connected to other Coursera courses and made a picture of the commodity trade during the Bronze Age complete."
"This was a great course, it was great to be out 'on location' with the archaeologists and Lorenzo Nigro."
"I have liked the course very much. It has been a trip to the past with Professor Nigro who has made it not only interesting but also enjoyable."
The quizzes are sometimes confusing and may have incorrect translations.
"The quizzes are sometimes misleading"
"The english text of the lectures has several mistakes."
"The translations are horrific and exams almost impossible to understand."
The instructor's difficult-to-understand English makes it challenging for some students.
"The instructor really speaks a very poor English and sometimes it is not easy to understand what he is saying."
"I enjoyed the class despite some language problems in the construction of the course itself."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in At the Origins of the Mediterranean Civilization: Archaeology of the City from the Levant to the West - 3rd-1st millennium BC with these activities:
Review basic archaeology concepts
Reviewing basic archaeology concepts will strengthen your foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Excavation Techniques
Show steps
  • Go over your notes from previous archaeology courses
  • Read introductory chapters of archaeology textbooks
  • Watch videos or documentaries on archaeological methods
Read 'The Phoenicians' by Sabatino Moscati
Reading 'The Phoenicians' offers a comprehensive overview of the topic.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book
  • Read and take notes on the relevant chapters
  • Summarize the main points and insights gained
Explore the Phoenician city of Motya
Exploring the Phoenician city of Motya will provide first-hand insights into the course topic.
Show steps
  • Visit the archaeological site of Motya
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the city
  • Examine the archaeological remains and artifacts
Two other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all five activities
Create a timeline of Mediterranean civilization
Creating a timeline of Mediterranean civilization will help visualize its key events and developments.
Show steps
  • Research key historical events and periods
  • Organize the events chronologically
  • Create a visual representation of the timeline
Participate in an archaeological excavation workshop
Participating in an archaeological excavation workshop provides hands-on experience and insights into archaeological methods.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a suitable workshop
  • Prepare for the workshop by reading relevant materials
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities
  • Follow up after the workshop by reflecting on the experience and applying the knowledge gained

Career center

Learners who complete At the Origins of the Mediterranean Civilization: Archaeology of the City from the Levant to the West - 3rd-1st millennium BC will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Archaeologist
Archaeologists uncover, document, and interpret the physical remains of past human life and culture. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as excavation techniques, data analysis, and interpretation of archaeological findings. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Anthropologist
Anthropologists study the behavior, origin, and development of humans. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as cultural analysis, research methods, and data interpretation. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Museum curator
Museum curators are responsible for planning and managing exhibitions, as well as preserving and interpreting museum collections. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as collection management, exhibit design, and public outreach. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Historian
Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as research methods, critical thinking, and writing. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Archivist
Archivists are responsible for preserving, organizing, and providing access to historical records. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as archival research, records management, and preservation techniques. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Librarian
Librarians help people find and access information. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as research methods, information literacy, and customer service. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Teacher
Teachers help students learn and grow. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as lesson planning, classroom management, and assessment. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on current events. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as research methods, writing, and interviewing. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Travel Writer
Travel writers write about their experiences traveling to different places. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as writing, photography, and cultural sensitivity. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Tour Guide
Tour guides lead groups of people on tours of historical sites and landmarks. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as public speaking, storytelling, and customer service. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Cultural Heritage Manager
Cultural heritage managers are responsible for preserving and promoting cultural heritage sites and artifacts. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as cultural resource management, preservation techniques, and community outreach. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Museum Educator
Museum educators develop and deliver educational programs for museum visitors. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as teaching methods, curriculum development, and public outreach. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Archaeological Technician
Archaeological technicians assist archaeologists in conducting excavations and analyzing archaeological findings. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as excavation techniques, data collection, and laboratory analysis. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Conservation Scientist
Conservation scientists use scientific methods to preserve and restore cultural heritage artifacts. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as materials science, preservation techniques, and analytical chemistry. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.
Research Assistant
Research assistants help researchers conduct research projects. This course can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this role, such as research methods, data analysis, and writing. The course's focus on the Mediterranean region will provide you with a deep understanding of the origins and development of human civilization in this important area.

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in At the Origins of the Mediterranean Civilization: Archaeology of the City from the Levant to the West - 3rd-1st millennium BC.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the origins and development of the Phoenician civilization.
Offers a detailed account of the maritime history and culture of the Phoenicians.
Offers a comprehensive overview of the civilizations of the ancient Near East, including the Phoenicians.
Provides a concise and accessible introduction to the Phoenician civilization.
Presents a fresh perspective on the Phoenician civilization, focusing on their maritime culture.

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