How is archaeology presented to the general public by the media? To what extent are the goals and activities of archaeologists accurately or inaccurately presented in movies, TV, documentaries, and books? (excluding the web). What are some of the factors that have brought about this discordance between archaeological research and media representation? In groups of two, students will be required to write a two page, single-spaced essay outlining their response to one of these questions. This work must provide specific examples, draw upon two case studies beyond the class textbook (these must include consideration of one movie other than Raiders of the Lost Ark, and either a book or documentary program). This assignment must employ references and follow the referencing system employed in this class. Student groups will be responsible for posting their essays on the Myths and Facts web page. Possible movies for review include: The Mummy, other Indiana Jones films, the Lara Croft Tomb Raider films, and The Mysterious Origins of Mankind. Possible books inlcude, but are not limited to, Chariots of the Gods, any of the Jean Auel books, National Geographic, Weekly World News, and Reindeer Moon by E.M. Thomas.

How is archaeology presented to the general public by the media?

Austin Grace & Laly Molina
Aimee Lindstedt & Kurt Sutton
Christine Rochel & Andy Kowieski

To what extent are the goals and activities of archaeologists accurately or inaccurately presented in movies, TV, documentaries, and books?

Marcos Ronquillo & Beth Bollwerk
Colin Quinn & Michelle Beasley
Mary Aimonovitch & Eric Moffit

What are some of the factors that have brought about this dicordance between archaeological research and media representation?

Matt Somma & Katie Beranek
Edward Reilly & Michael Zinser
Tyler Davis & Andy Ramirez
Patrick McGarry & Jon Leisinger