Pompeii and Herculaneum - Coursework 6

 

Coursework 6.

Timetable and description of discovery and excavations.

 

 

 

Format

This is a relatively straightforward piece of coursework. It is a simple account of the dates and methods of the excavation of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and any other nearby towns.

Areas to cover

The initial attempts at excavation - though little needs to be said here as very little could be done - and the change in appearance of the area.

The first discovery of Herculaneum and Pompeii and the treasure hunting which followed.

The more organised and scientific excavations up to the present day. Names like Fontana, Fiorelli and Maiuri will need to be mentioned, along with many others. The more logical and scientific approach of the excavators should also be covered.

The current state of excavation of the two main cities.

Warnings

Beware of using out of date sources. There are many books on Pompeii and the excavations but some of them do not cover the changes in styles and approach of the archaeologists in charge. One example of this would be the different methods of filling the cavities found in the ash. Originally plaster of paris was used, but not nowadays.

Make sure to give a full account of the main archaeologists and their achievements.

Don't simply copy out chunks from the texts; there are no marks here for response, but you must show accuracy and understanding in your account.
Suggestions

A chronological account is probably best. This is a very factual piece of writing and there is little to be gained by going for fancy flash-back technique or very descriptive writing.

Some books and other sources to use
Pompeii - Ian Andrews
only a little useful material here, on page 48
Encyclopaedia Britannica Text of the Britannica '98 article on Pompeii has some useful information about the excavations - follow this link.
Microsoft Encarta A shorter article than the Britannica, but some useful information here.

Cambridge Latin Course, Unit One

Stage 12 has some information on the excavations
Cities of Vesuvius - Michael Grant good coverage of the excavations - available as photocopy only, unless the book is returned to the Classics Room

 

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