Under the Volcano:  The Life and Afterlife of Pompeii

Course Description

Everyone has heard of Pompeii and its destruction in the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius on August 24, 79 CE, but how much of what you “know” is really true?  This seminar will study popular (mis)conceptions about Pompeii and Roman life in general based on television programs, books, and films; the discovery of Pompeii in the mid-18th century and early excavation efforts; the material remains of the city revealed by modern archaeological investigation; current issues relating to preservation and visitor access; and plans for the future, including on-site computer guides and online CG reconstruction projects. You will learn how to use the resources of the TCNJ Library for writing research papers and how to evaluate and use online sources.  We will also make a fieldtrip to an area museum to study objects found in the Vesuvian region. The culmination of the semester’s team-work will be a “virtual exhibition” about Pompeii in which all the above topics will be covered.