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How does an ancient object speak, and how do we speak for it? What stories can it convey about its life and relations, and are they coherent, interesting, reliable? What of its silences? This seminar draws together hands-on work with objects in the Archaeological Museum and discussion of readings in relevant areas of material culture theory, ancient studies, anthropology, art history, museology, and cultural heritage studies, in order to examine different approaches that have been brought to bear on ancient things in attempts to generate communications about their pasts and presents. We will consider how different disciplinary and historical interests shape these stories, with implications for the fundamental identity of the object. Each seminar participant will work with ancient objects in the museum’s collection to craft alternative accounts of their existences, through which we will consider how each version has the potential to expand, conceal, and manipulate knowledge and connections.