GAPS in evidence, caused by a lack of evidence, is perhaps one of the most vexing problems in studying history. Such gaps can occur for many reasons but in ancient history it is usually because the evidence has not been preserved well enough, whether archaeological or written, or it has simply been lost.
* Read Hurley et. al., pp. 42 - 50
* Summarise the sections titled 'Decoding Ancient Texts', 'Reliability of Evidence' and 'Problems of Historiography'.
* Read pp. Bradley 51-52, noting the problems caused by hoaxes, forgeries and fakes.
QUESTIONS
What problems are caused for the historian by incomplete or damaged sources?
What are the main factors that can limit the reliability of sources?
What are the different kinds of bias that we may find in sources? How should we deal with them?
EXTENSION: Complete the 'For Further Investigation' activity from p. 43
* Below is an example of the structure of a Venn Diagram from the Creately website. The image itself is a link to the website. In each circle the characteristics of each text or source are noted. In the eliptical section where they overlap is where you note the important similarities. This is an excellent tool to help you clarify the common elements of conflicting sources.
* Read Hurley et. al., pp. 42 - 50
* Summarise the sections titled 'Decoding Ancient Texts', 'Reliability of Evidence' and 'Problems of Historiography'.
* Read pp. Bradley 51-52, noting the problems caused by hoaxes, forgeries and fakes.
QUESTIONS
What problems are caused for the historian by incomplete or damaged sources?
What are the main factors that can limit the reliability of sources?
What are the different kinds of bias that we may find in sources? How should we deal with them?
EXTENSION: Complete the 'For Further Investigation' activity from p. 43
* Below is an example of the structure of a Venn Diagram from the Creately website. The image itself is a link to the website. In each circle the characteristics of each text or source are noted. In the eliptical section where they overlap is where you note the important similarities. This is an excellent tool to help you clarify the common elements of conflicting sources.
If you still are not quite sure how to make a Venn, or you would rather use Microsoft Word, the video below will be useful for you.