The historicity of the United Monarchy has recently come under attack. The biblical 'minimalists' say that a reconstruction of ancient Israel is impossible with the sources that we have access to, and the glory and wealth of Solomon's empire is mere fiction. They disregard the Bible as a reliable source, and archaeology because it is mute and open to interpretation. Some scholars have suggested lowering the traditional dates on certain archaeological strata, resulting in an entirely different picture of the tenth century BCE. Other scholars say that the United Monarchy definitely did exist and consider the Bible a valuable historical source. The evidence for the tenth century and the United Monarchy as shown by the Hebrew Bible and archaeology is investigated as well as various key sites in Israel. The conclusion is that the traditional chronology and viewpoint of the United Monarchy still needs to be respected. / Biblical and Ancient Studies / M.A. (Biblical Studies)

Iraq is a country of great cultural significance as it is where civilization first began. As a result of its lengthy occupation, it is virtually one large archaeological site. In spite of numerous warnings to the governments of both the United States and the United Kingdom, no efforts were made to protect the Iraqi National Museum in Baghdad when the American-led coalition unlawfully invaded Iraq. Indeed, orders were given not to interfere with the looting. During the occupation that followed, the United States failed to take steps to protect Iraqi cultural property. In terms of international law, it was obliged to protect Iraq’s cultural property. The United States also chose to exacerbate its unlawful conduct by occupying archaeological sites and damaging them further by illegal construction. As a result many significant sites have been irreparably damaged or destroyed. Their conduct was the result of complete indifference to the Iraqi cultural heritage. Although their actions render them iin breach of international law, it is unlikely that the United States will ever be prosecuted for its actions. / Old Testament & Ancient Near Eastern Studies / M.A. (Ancient Near Eastern Studies)

Le sujet de la thèse est l'étude de la dégradation des caractéristiques élastiques d'une roche fragile induite par le chargement. En particulier on s'intéresse à l'anisotropie induite et à son influence sur le caractère fragile de la rupture. L'étude présente le développement d'un modèle de comportement approprié à ce phénomène, une étude expérimentale pour l'étalonnage et la validation du modèle et enfin une application à un problème aux limites particulier représentant l'étude de la rupture d'un cylindre creux et d'une excavation souterraine profonde. Le cadre théorique utilisé est celui de la mécanique de l'endommagement continu. Le modèle développé est caractérisé par un tenseur de vitesse d'endommagement anisotrope d'ordre deux. Les lois d'évolution des trois composantes du tenseur d'endommagement sont obtenues expérimentalement à partir d'essais de compression triaxiale. Les essais ont été réalisés sur deux roches d'origine sédimentaire : une calcarénite italienne, la pietra leccese, et un grès français, le grès de Rothbach. L'influence des conditions de réalisation des essais (élancement des échantillons, frettage ou lubrification des bases des échantillons) a été étudiée. Nous avons simulé le comportement d'un cylindre creux et d'une cavité cylindrique soumise à un état de contraintes isotrope à l'infini. Les résultats de cette simulation numérique ont montré que plus l'anisotropie induite est forte, plus le comportement de la roche est fragile et plus élevé est le nombre de stabilité.

Cette thèse examine la réponse de différents types de lois de comportement en chargement et en déchargement et modélise numériquement les problèmes du creusement dans un massif du sol. Deux méthodes de modélisation d'excavation par éléments finis, l'une proposée par Ghaboussi et Pecknold (1984) et Brown et Booker (1985) et l'autre par Borja et al. (1989) ont été programmées dans le code CESAR-LCPC. Ces deux méthodes ont été ensuite comparées pour la simulation par étapes de l'excavation de massifs de sol élastique et élastoplastique. Nous avons également développé la notion de chargement-déchargement-rechargement multiaxial basée sur le signe du travail incrémental. L'application de ce principe (qui englobe le cas unidirectionnel) à une excavation pour différents types de lois de comportement, nous permet de connaître l'étendue des zones en chargement et/ou en déchargement autour de l'ouvrage. Un modèle élastique non-linéaire (Wong et Duncan), un modèle élastoplastique parfait à critère de Mohr-Coulomb et un modèle élastoplastique avec écrouissage (Nova) ont été étudiés plus en détail dans cette étude. Ces modèles ont été d'abord appliqués à la simulation d'essais triaxiaux, puis à un problème d'excavation. Ce travail s'achève par la modélisation d'un ouvrage réel : une excavation réalisée devant un rideau de palplanche butonné dans un milieu sableux (Université de Karlsruhe). Dans cette partie, nous avons comparé avec les observations sur site, les résultats des modélisations en éléments finis avec le modèle élastoplastique à critère de Mohr-Coulomb et avec le modèle de Nova.

Sedimentary rocks are characterized with very low permeability (in the order of 10-22 m2), low diffusivity, a possible self-healing of fractures, and a good capacity to retard radionuclide transport. In recent years, sedimentary rocks are investigated by many research groups for their suitability for the disposal of radioactive waste. Development of deep geologic repositories (DGRs) for the storage of radioactive waste within these formations causes progressive modification to the state of stress, to the groundwater regime, and to the chemistry of the rock mass. Thermal effects due to the ongoing nuclear activity can cause additional disturbances to the system. All these changes in the system are coupled and time-dependent processes. These coupled processes can result in the development of an excavation damaged zone (EDZ) around excavations. More permeable than the undisturbed rock, the EDZ is likely to be a preferential pathway for water and gas flow. Consequently, the EDZ could be a potential exit pathway for the radioactive waste to biosphere. An investigation of the Hydraulic-Mechanical (HM) and Thermal-Hydraulic-Mechanical-Chemical (THMC) behaviour of sedimentary rock formations is essential for the development of DGRs within such formations. This research work consists of (1) an experimental investigation of the mechanical behaviour of the anisotropic Tournemire argillite, (2) modeling of the mechanical behaviour of the Tournemire argillite, and (3) numerical simulations of the mechanical and hydromechanical behavior of two host sedimentary rocks, the Tournemire argillite and Cobourg limestone, for deep geological repository for nuclear wastes. The experimental program includes the measurements of the physical properties of the Tournemire argillite and its mechanical response to loading during uniaxial compression tests, triaxial compression tests with different confining pressures, unconfined and confined cyclic compression tests, Brazilian tests, and creep tests. Also, acoustic emission events are recorded to detect the initiation and propagation of microcracks within the rock during the uniaxial testing. The approach for modeling the mechanical behaviour of the Tournemire argillite consists of four components: elastic properties of the argillite, a damage model, the proposed concept of mobilized strength parameters, and the classical theory of elastoplasticity. The combination of the four components results in an elastoplastic-damage model for describing the mechanical behaviour of the Tournemire argillite. The capabilities of the model are evaluated by simulating laboratory experiments. Numerical simulations consist of: (1) a numerical simulation of a mine-by-test experiment at the Tournemire site (France), and (2) numerical simulations of the mechanical and hydromechanical behaviour of the Cobourg limestone within the EDZ (Canada). The parameters influencing the initiation and evolution of EDZ over time in sedimentary rocks are discussed.

Iraq is a country of great cultural significance as it is where civilization first began. As a result of its lengthy occupation, it is virtually one large archaeological site. In spite of numerous warnings to the governments of both the United States and the United Kingdom, no efforts were made to protect the Iraqi National Museum in Baghdad when the American-led coalition unlawfully invaded Iraq. Indeed, orders were given not to interfere with the looting. During the occupation that followed, the United States failed to take steps to protect Iraqi cultural property. In terms of international law, it was obliged to protect Iraq’s cultural property. The United States also chose to exacerbate its unlawful conduct by occupying archaeological sites and damaging them further by illegal construction. As a result many significant sites have been irreparably damaged or destroyed. Their conduct was the result of complete indifference to the Iraqi cultural heritage. Although their actions render them iin breach of international law, it is unlikely that the United States will ever be prosecuted for its actions. / Biblical and Ancient Studies / M.A. (Ancient Near Eastern Studies)

The historicity of the United Monarchy has recently come under attack. The biblical 'minimalists' say that a reconstruction of ancient Israel is impossible with the sources that we have access to, and the glory and wealth of Solomon's empire is mere fiction. They disregard the Bible as a reliable source, and archaeology because it is mute and open to interpretation. Some scholars have suggested lowering the traditional dates on certain archaeological strata, resulting in an entirely different picture of the tenth century BCE. Other scholars say that the United Monarchy definitely did exist and consider the Bible a valuable historical source. The evidence for the tenth century and the United Monarchy as shown by the Hebrew Bible and archaeology is investigated as well as various key sites in Israel. The conclusion is that the traditional chronology and viewpoint of the United Monarchy still needs to be respected. / Biblical and Ancient Studies / M.A. (Biblical Studies)

The Portuguese galleon, the São João, is one of the greatest enigmas in South African maritime history, not only because so little is known about its cargo, passengers and crew, but also because the location of the wreck has puzzled researchers from the early 20th century until the present. The aim of the Port Edward Project 2001-2003 was to assess both documentary and physical material pertaining to the wreck, to throw more light on the location of the wreck site and survivor camp because this ship is an important part of South Africa’s maritime history as it was the first cargo ship wrecked along the country’s coastline. Many researchers believe it was one of the most richly laden ships to have left India since it was discovered. To begin with all available sources containing reference to the São João and the events surrounding its wrecking were investigated. This established a historical archaeological standard for dating and identification of Portuguese shipwrecks along the South African coast. A chronological examination of the extent of documentary sources resulted in an archaeological underwater and land survey in the area where the greatest concentrations of artefacts are still found today. This geographic area was within a defined zone within the municipal area of Port Shepston. Investigations were limited to a stretch of coast and adjacent inland area between the town of Port Edward, more specifically Tragedy Hill, and the Kuboboyi River. The archaeological material investigated: includes: Chinese porcelain shards, cowrie shells, cornelian beads, pepper and cannons. To prevent reiterating previous investigator’s research a survey was conducted to determine what scientific research has been done on the archaeological material. The actual location of the campsite has not been indisputably determined. It became evident that some research has been done to identify this important site but always only up to a certain point where some uncertainty still remains. This uncertainty is the result of certain factors. Firstly, Tim Maggs only positively identified the wreck site in the early 1980’s. Secondly, great amounts of agricultural activity have been reported in the area and thirdly the survivors only camped for twelve days, which limits the possibility of finding any material. In order to assist in locating this elusive site, the descriptions and details of other Portuguese campsites were investigated. From this it was possible to construct a virtual picture of the survivor camp by comparing the survivor’s account and the known characteristics of Portuguese survivor camps with the artefacts found and geography of the Port Edward area. The chronological examination of documentary sources, the comparison of other Portuguese survivor campsites, the artefacts found in Port Edward and the geography of the area led to the following conclusions: it can be said with a reasonable amount of certainty that the site in Port Edward is that of the São João. A site which demonstrates Portuguese campsite characteristics, where great concentrations of pepper have been found, was identified. It has been established that the partnership with historical documentation and archaeology gives this project the option of taking the investigations further. The virtual scenario assists in reducing the possibilities and refining the focus as opposed to merely terminating the search. It is recommended that specialized equipment be used for future underwater research since the sea conditions are harsh and dangerous. Tough the possible location of the survivor camp was established further excavations might reveal more about the construction of the camp. / Dissertation (MA (cultural history))--University of Pretoria, 2005. / Historical and Heritage Studies / unrestricted

Sedimentary rocks are characterized with very low permeability (in the order of 10-22 m2), low diffusivity, a possible self-healing of fractures, and a good capacity to retard radionuclide transport. In recent years, sedimentary rocks are investigated by many research groups for their suitability for the disposal of radioactive waste. Development of deep geologic repositories (DGRs) for the storage of radioactive waste within these formations causes progressive modification to the state of stress, to the groundwater regime, and to the chemistry of the rock mass. Thermal effects due to the ongoing nuclear activity can cause additional disturbances to the system. All these changes in the system are coupled and time-dependent processes. These coupled processes can result in the development of an excavation damaged zone (EDZ) around excavations. More permeable than the undisturbed rock, the EDZ is likely to be a preferential pathway for water and gas flow. Consequently, the EDZ could be a potential exit pathway for the radioactive waste to biosphere. An investigation of the Hydraulic-Mechanical (HM) and Thermal-Hydraulic-Mechanical-Chemical (THMC) behaviour of sedimentary rock formations is essential for the development of DGRs within such formations. This research work consists of (1) an experimental investigation of the mechanical behaviour of the anisotropic Tournemire argillite, (2) modeling of the mechanical behaviour of the Tournemire argillite, and (3) numerical simulations of the mechanical and hydromechanical behavior of two host sedimentary rocks, the Tournemire argillite and Cobourg limestone, for deep geological repository for nuclear wastes. The experimental program includes the measurements of the physical properties of the Tournemire argillite and its mechanical response to loading during uniaxial compression tests, triaxial compression tests with different confining pressures, unconfined and confined cyclic compression tests, Brazilian tests, and creep tests. Also, acoustic emission events are recorded to detect the initiation and propagation of microcracks within the rock during the uniaxial testing. The approach for modeling the mechanical behaviour of the Tournemire argillite consists of four components: elastic properties of the argillite, a damage model, the proposed concept of mobilized strength parameters, and the classical theory of elastoplasticity. The combination of the four components results in an elastoplastic-damage model for describing the mechanical behaviour of the Tournemire argillite. The capabilities of the model are evaluated by simulating laboratory experiments. Numerical simulations consist of: (1) a numerical simulation of a mine-by-test experiment at the Tournemire site (France), and (2) numerical simulations of the mechanical and hydromechanical behaviour of the Cobourg limestone within the EDZ (Canada). The parameters influencing the initiation and evolution of EDZ over time in sedimentary rocks are discussed.

Le sujet abordé dans la thèse a pour matière principale l’archéologie et s’inscrit dans la lignée des recherches consacrées au peuplement ancien du Languedoc oriental. Le mémoire traite d’un inventaire de sites archéologiques localisés en basse vallée de la Cèze, dans le département du Gard et en milieu rural, ainsi que de la mise en perspective de ces établissements dans une synthèse sur les dynamiques de peuplement sur une période comprise entre le IIe s. av. et le VIe s. de n. è. L’Antiquité constitue ici le cadre temporel de cette recherche, bien que les traces d’occupation du sol préhistoriques, protohistoriques et médiévales n’aient pas été passées sous silence. La réalisation de plusieurs campagnes de sondage et de prospection archéologique diachronique, associé à un inventaire céramologique, a constitué le socle fondamental de cette étude. L’emploi d’un GPS portatif a été généralisé à l’ensemble des établissements étudiés lors des prospections, qui ont bénéficié, dans leur intégralité, de relevés du mobilier au réel. Pour tenter de répondre aux problématiques touchant les dynamiques de peuplement au cours de l’Antiquité, la démarche retenue a été celle d’une analyse spatiale multi-scalaire, avec l’emploi privilégié d’un système d’information géographique créé pour l’occasion. Le travail de synthèse explicitant les dynamiques de peuplement en basse vallée de Cèze s’est appuyé sur un corpus de 84 sites, qui a fait l’objet d’une classification par le biais d’outils statistiques, et d’une spatialisation grâce à l’emploi du SIG. Cette étude a donc pour objectif de donner une première vue synthétique des données issues des campagnes de prospections et des fouilles archéologiques et, en les replaçant dans leur contexte géographique, de caractériser les établissements ruraux gallo-romains afin d’en montrer l’évolution spatiale et chronologique. L’analyse spatiale ici explicitée se donne pour dessein de comprendre les logiques du système de peuplement rural en essayant de répondre à plusieurs questions : quelles sont les modalités de création, de disparition, voire de transformation des établissements antiques ? Quelles sont les interactions qu’ils pouvaient entretenir entre eux ? Quelle est la place des oppida dans le réseau d’habitat de l’époque ? Ou, encore, dans quelles proportions les réseaux de communications et les activités agricoles influent-elles sur les dynamiques de peuplement ? / The topic discussed here mainly involves archeology and is in line with research on the early settlement of eastern Languedoc. This volume will deal with an inventory of archaeological sites located in the lower valley of the Cèze, in the department of Gard and rural areas, as well as put into perspective these establishments in a synthesis of settlement dynamics between the second century B.C. and the sixth century A.D. Antiquity forms the time frame of this work, and although traces of occupation of prehistoric, protohistoric and medieval soil have not been disregarded. The realization of several excavation campaigns and diachronic archaeological surveys, associated with a ceramic assemblage inventory, constitute the fundamental basis of this study. On all study sites during surveys, the use of a handheld GPS has been generalized and thus all sites now benefit from real records. In an attempt to address the issues affecting settlement dynamics during antiquity, the approach adopted was that of a multi-scale spatial analysis, with the preferred use of a geographical information system specifically created for this task. The synthesis work explaining population dynamics in low Cèze valley relied on a corpus of 84 sites, which have been classified by means of statistical tools and spatialization through the use of GIS. This study therefore aims to give a first synthetic view of data from surveys and campaigns of archaeological excavation and, by placing them in their geographical context, to characterize rural gallo-roman settlements by showing their spatial and chronological evolution. The spatial analysis reported here is aimed at understanding the logic behind the rural settlement system by asking several questions : what are the methods of creation, disappearance or transformation of ancient establishments ? What interactions could they have had ? What is the place of the oppida in the habitat network during this period ? Or, to what extent do communication networks and traces of agricultural activity affect settlement dynamics ?