OVERVIEW

This short module looks at the history and archaeology of London, from its Roman foundation as Londinium in the 1st century AD, through its collapse and re-foundation as the new settlement of Lundenwic in c. AD 600, its relocation in c. AD900, and its subsequent dramatic development through to its destruction in the Great Fire of AD 1666. The majority of classes will take the form of field trips in the London area, so suitable walking shoes and warm clothing should be worn. 

This module takes the student on a journey from the origins of Roman London to the devastating fire of 1666, which destroyed the medieval city. The program offers a unique opportunity to see some of the hidden, inaccessible or overlooked gems of London’s past. It will also introduce students to the early history of the city they are currently living in and how the process of archaeology operates here. The module follows London’s history chronologically and each weekly class will consist of a visit to a monument or area representing a particular aspect of London’s past, such as the remains of the Roman fort or the medieval guildhall. Classes will also be held in the Museum of London 

On completion of the module students will have a solid overview of the development of London from AD50-1700 and a familiarity with the layout of the historical city, its physical remains, monuments and museum displays. Students will also be encouraged to consider the ways in which such remains are uncovered and presented to the public. 

AIMS and OUTCOMES 

You will gain an overview of the general development of London from c AD 50 to AD 1700. You will become familiar with major archaeological sites and monuments and associated museum displays, as well as issues related to how such remains are presented to the public.

By the end of the module you should:

➢ Have knowledge and appreciation of the history of the city you are currently living;

➢ Know the chronological framework of the Roman and medieval periods;

➢ Have an understanding of the complexities of ‘urban’ archaeological research;

➢ Be able to recognise some of the factors influencing the development of London, and towns more generally;

➢ Have an enhanced appreciation of the relics of Roman and medieval London, and they ways these are presented to the public. On successful completion of the fieldwork, students should have developed their observational skills and increased their ability for critical reflection. The essays are designed to reflect these as well as the application of newly-acquired knowledge, both from the presentations and their own private study.

TEACHING METHODS 

The module is taught through a series of field trips and museum visits, following a detailed lecture designed to introduce the student to the methods, themes and sites covered in the module.

This module is designed for Affiliate/JYA students 

Here is more information https://www.ucl.ac.uk/archaeology/study/undergraduate/courses/london-great-fire-1666