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Arch Class Notes

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4 views2 pages

Arch Class Notes

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william.m.wright.2
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Archaeology Class Notes

Date: November 2, 2024

Introduction to Archaeology

● Definition: The scientific study of human history and prehistory through excavation and
analysis of artifacts, structures, and other physical remains.
● Goals of Archaeology:
○ Understand human behavior and cultural practices.
○ Reconstruct past societies.
○ Preserve cultural heritage.

Key Concepts

● Artifacts: Objects made or used by humans (e.g., tools, pottery, jewelry).


● Ecofacts: Natural objects that provide information about past human activity (e.g.,
animal bones, seeds).
● Features: Non-portable structures or deposits (e.g., hearths, walls).

Archaeological Methods

● Survey: Systematic examination of a landscape to locate archaeological sites.


○ Techniques: Aerial photography, satellite imagery, ground-penetrating radar.
● Excavation: The process of digging and removing earth to uncover artifacts and
features.
○ Techniques: Stratigraphic excavation (analyzing layers), vertical and horizontal
excavation.

Dating Methods

● Relative Dating: Determining the age of an artifact based on its relationship to other
artifacts (e.g., stratigraphy, typology).
● Absolute Dating: Determining a specific date or date range (e.g., radiocarbon dating,
dendrochronology).

Major Archaeological Sites

● Stonehenge (England): Neolithic monument; significance in astronomy and ritual


practices.
● Pompeii (Italy): Roman city preserved under volcanic ash; provides insight into daily life
in ancient Rome.
● Machu Picchu (Peru): Incan citadel; showcases advanced engineering and agricultural
practices.
Ethical Considerations

● Cultural Heritage Preservation: Importance of protecting archaeological sites from


looting and destruction.
● Indigenous Rights: Collaborating with indigenous communities in archaeological
research.
● Repatriation: Returning artifacts to their countries of origin.

Current Trends in Archaeology

● Public Archaeology: Engaging the public through outreach programs and community
involvement.
● Digital Archaeology: Utilizing technology (3D modeling, GIS) to document and analyze
sites.
● Interdisciplinary Approaches: Collaborating with other fields (anthropology, history,
environmental science).

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