British Literature and Archaeology, 1880-1930

British literature and archaeology,1880-1930 explores how British writers and artists engaged with archaeological discourse to envision radical possibilities for the present and future, shaping debates over gender roles, queer iconography, authenticity, and the First World War.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 27 September 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

British literature and archaeology, spanning the long turn of the twentieth century, unveils a captivating interplay between British writers and artists, who delved into the realm of archaeological discourse, exploring its artifacts, landscapes, bodies, and methods. Through this project, we trace the profound influence of archaeology on significant late-Victorian and modern discussions, shaping debates over shifting gender roles, fostering the emergence of queer iconography and the retrieval of marginalized histories, inspiring artistic forgeries and reshaping notions of authenticity, and providing a means for writers and artists to historicize the traumas of the First World War. Ultimately, this book establishes archaeology as a central theme in these major discourses, recognizing literary and artistic engagements with the archaeological imagination as valuable forms of archaeological knowledge in their own right.

Introduction:
The long turn of the twentieth century witnessed a profound engagement between British literature and archaeology, as writers and artists sought to harness the power of the past to envision radical possibilities for the present and future. This project explores how archaeology shaped major late-Victorian and modern discussions, influencing debates over shifting gender roles, facilitating the development of queer iconography and the recovery of silenced or neglected histories, inspiring artistic forgeries and transforming modern conceptions of authenticity, and helping writers and artists historicize the traumas of the First World War. By unearthing archaeology at the center of these significant discourses, this book establishes literary and artistic engagements with the archaeological imagination as valuable forms of archaeological knowledge in their own right.

Archaeology as a Tool for Shaping Discourse:
Archaeology played a crucial role in shaping late-Victorian and modern discussions by providing a wealth of material evidence and insights into the past. Writers and artists utilized archaeological discourse to challenge traditional narratives and explore new perspectives on gender roles, sexuality, and identity. For instance, the discovery of ancient artifacts and the study of ancient cultures led to a reevaluation of gender roles and the emergence of feminist discourse. Similarly, the exploration of queer iconography and the recovery of suppressed histories facilitated the development of a more inclusive and diverse understanding of sexuality and gender.

Queer Iconography and the Recovery of Silenced Histories:
Archaeology played a significant role in the development of queer iconography and the recovery of silenced histories. The discovery of ancient queer artifacts and the study of ancient cultures that celebrated LGBTQ+ identities provided a rich source of inspiration for artists and writers. This led to the creation of iconic works of art that celebrated the diversity of sexual and gender identities and challenged traditional notions of heteronormativity. Moreover, the recovery of neglected histories, such as the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals during the First World War, allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of the past and the contributions of marginalized communities.

Artistic Forgeries and the Transformation of Authenticity:
Archaeology also inspired artistic forgeries, which challenged the notion of authenticity and the authority of historical records. The creation of fake archaeological artifacts and the reinterpretation of ancient symbols and motifs provided artists with a means to subvert traditional art forms and explore new artistic possibilities. This led to the emergence of postmodern art movements that emphasized the constructed nature of reality and the role of the artist in shaping it.

Historicizing the Traumas of the First World War:
Archaeology also played a role in historicizing the traumas of the First World War. The discovery of ancient battlefields and the study of the remains of soldiers and civilians provided a means for writers and artists to commemorate the sacrifices made during the war and to explore the emotional and psychological impact of war on individuals and communities. This led to the creation of powerful works of literature and art that explored the human cost of war and the importance of remembrance and healing.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, British literature and archaeology, spanning the long turn of the twentieth century, reveal a rich and complex interplay between the past and the present. Through their engagement with archaeological discourse, writers and artists uncovered the materials of the past to envision radical possibilities for the present and future. Archaeology shaped major late-Victorian and modern discussions, influencing debates over shifting gender roles, facilitating the development of queer iconography and the recovery of silenced or neglected histories, inspiring artistic forgeries and transforming modern conceptions of authenticity, and helping writers and artists historicize the traumas of the First World War. By recognizing the value of literary and artistic engagements with the archaeological imagination, we can gain a deeper understanding of the past and the potential for shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526161475