070323 PS BA-Proseminar - Public History - Archaeology in Public Debate (2025S)

Public history can be defined as a complex discourse between individuals and collectives about past-related identities. As a historical discipline, archaeology plays an important role in the formation of historical narratives by uncovering, contextualizing, and interpreting material remains of past societies. In this proseminar, we will discuss different aspects of public engagement with, and debates about archaeology and archaeologists through the lens of public history. The aim of this course is to examine the past and present roles and influence of archaeologists and archaeology as a discipline in the public debate about history, and to draw comparisons with current debates about the public representation and reception of historical research.

Over the course of the proseminar, we will cover a variety of topics: from the adventure-seeking pioneers, legendary discoveries, and famous hoaxes, to the current debates on cultural heritage protection and dealing with amateur archaeologists, history enthusiasts, collectors and metal detectorists. We will also examine the role of archaeology in contributing to contemporary debates on climate change, migrations, and identities.

Each week, a chosen topic will be discussed based on the assigned reading, consisting of scientific articles and book chapters, as well as newspaper and magazine articles. The combination of weekly written assignments in the form of critical analysis of scientific and journalistic texts, active contribution to group and plenary discussions, and peer-review exercises will allow attendees to actively engage with the texts and the current debates, as well as to develop their research and presentation skills.