Chronology chronos – time logos – study of, order of

Terminology BCE = before the common era (formerly BC) CE = in the common era (formerly AD, anno domini) Year “zero” is not just the birth of Christ New terminology is more inclusive.

Points to Remember 2000 BCE occurs before 1000 BCE but 1000 CE occurs before 2000 CE. The fifth century BCE is 499 – 400 BCE. The first millennium BCE is 999 – 0 BCE. First quarter of the fifth century BCE is 499 – 475 BCE. Second quarter of the fifth century BCE is 475 – 450 BCE, etc.

Art Historical/Historical Terms Terms like Paleolithic, Assyrian, Classical, Roman Imperial refer both to an artistic style (the definition of which is often changing) and a specific time period. Terms imply a change in civilization or culture. Paleolithic, the “old stone age” refers to a nomadic culture with a certain level of technological experience. Neolithic, the “new stone age” refers to a more settled culture with domestic agriculture and herding with a different level of technological experience.

How do we determine DATE Relative dating –Comparison to other objects that have a secure date. –Historical records, archaeological finds secure the date. Absolute dating –Scientific methods – radiometric dating (C-14), thermoluminescence, electron spin resonance (ESR). –Works on materials that are more than 5000 years of age and less than 40,000 years of age.

Memorization of Dates In this class, you need to memorize dates. Dates are often civilization specific. e.g. Bronze Age in the British Isles and parts of France refers to the dates 2300 – 1000 BCE. In Greece and the Mediterranean, the Bronze Age begins sooner – 3000 – 1000 BCE.