Age, Gender and Status in Macedonian Society, 550-300 BCE: Intersectional Approaches to Mortuary Archaeology

This book provides a large-scale analysis of age, gender, and status in Macedonian society, drawing on a database of over 1,100 graves. It argues that gender roles were distinct but also showed fluidity depending on status, and moves the discussion of Macedonia away from a few exceptional individuals to a diachronic and large-scale study of communities. It contributes to the burgeoning discussion on children in Antiquity and addresses the promise and challenges of applying intersectionality to archaeological contexts.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Drawing on a comprehensive database of over 1,100 graves, this groundbreaking work offers a profound and detailed analysis of age, gender, and status in Macedonian society during the Archaic to Hellenistic periods. By employing an intersectional approach, the author delves into the lives of individuals from various social backgrounds, revealing the complexity and nuance of a society often reduced to mere warriors and fierce royal women. Through quantitative analysis and case-studies, the reader gains a comprehensive understanding of the society, exploring the experiences of non-elite men, women, and children. Moreover, the book discusses the changing dynamics over time, providing a deeper perspective on the historical narrative that is primarily limited to the Late Classical and Hellenistic periods.

However, the application of intersectionality, a framework developed for contemporary contexts, to archaeological contexts presents both challenges and opportunities. While it offers a valuable lens for understanding the complex relationships between different social identities, it requires careful consideration and adaptation to the unique temporal and spatial dimensions of the archaeological record.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking work contributes significantly to our understanding of Macedonian society during the Archaic to Hellenistic periods. By employing an intersectional approach and leveraging a large-scale dataset, the author provides a rich and nuanced portrayal of individuals and communities, challenging traditional narratives and opening up new avenues for research. As the field of archaeology continues to evolve, this book will undoubtedly inspire further exploration and debate on the complex and multifaceted nature of ancient societies.

Weight: 698g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399524445