Some lessons just can’t be taught in a book — or in a traditional classroom, for that matter.
Dr. Robyn Le Blanc, a professor in the Department of Ancient Mediterranean Studies & Archaeology, knows this well. That’s why her “Archaeology of Roman Daily Life” students are stepping outside the classroom to engage in experimental archaeology, an interactive method of recreating historical practices to better understand ancient cultures.
In one recent class, they visited the Foundry in UNCG’s Gatewood Studio Arts Building to “cast” ancient Roman coins, a method that involves pouring melted metal into molds.
“So much of what we do in this class is trying to use experimental archeology to recreate the lifestyles and practices of people in the past,” said Le Blanc. “And the idea with the coin-casting class was to get some really hands-on experience with somebody who, you know, is an expert on it.”
That expert is UNCG Foundry Director Kevin Vanek in the School of Art, who led the immersive workshop, helping students connect with the art of ancient craftsmanship.
While the Romans primarily “struck” coins (a process of forcefully striking a metal blank between two dies) rather than casting them, the class used coin casting to explore the labor and processes involved in ancient currency production. Students considered questions like: How did coin casting work? What did the process feel like? And what impact did it have on the workers? They also learned how ancient methods compare to modern practices.
“As a double major in Classics and Archaeology, it’s really important that I take classes that show this hands-on process,” said Daniel Augustus Szabo.
The Department of Ancient Mediterranean Studies & Archaeology (previously Classical Studies) frequently integrates experiential activities like this into its coursework. Whether it’s playing an ancient game of Greek “knucklebones” or passing around replicas of classical pottery, these dynamic lessons bring the ancient world to life in ways that deepen comprehension and enhance learning outcomes.
“Being able to come out here and see this happen firsthand gives you a really different experience and perspective,” said Le Blanc. “Even from the way things smell, to the heat of the furnace, it’s really hard to recreate if you’re just reading about it in a book.”
Story adapted by Elizabeth Keri, College of Arts & Sciences
Video by David Row, University Communications
