Description
Pompeii is a site unique in world archaeology. It was a prosperous town of the Roman Empire that was suddenly and almost completely erased from history by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE. Part I of this course will provide a quick historical overview, followed by a more detailed account of the eruption, and, centuries later, the re-discovery of Pompeii. Part II will provide a picture of the town of Pompeii prior to its destruction. This lecture will present a brief summary of the centuries of development, but will focus primarily on Pompeii as it appeared on that hot August morning in 79 CE.