Integrated Spectra of Early-Type Galaxies

I review efforts to determine the ages and chemical compositions of early-type galaxies from their integrated spectra. After reviewing the history of integrated light analyses, we consider how reliably the light-weighted mean ages and chemical compositions of galaxies can be extracted from current state-of-the-art population synthesis modelling and observational data. Particular attention is given to assessing the best strategies for pursuing integrated spectrum analysis, both from observational and modelling standpoints. Finally, we consider efforts to move beyond light-weighted mean ages and metallicities, specifically, to constrain star formation histories with multiple episodes of star formation.