Broken Bodies, Places and Objects: New Perspectives on Fragmentation in Archaeology

Broken Bodies,Places and Objects explores the breadth of fragmentation and fragment use in prehistory and history,and provides an up-to-date insight into current archaeological thinking around the topic. It is written for scholars and students in archaeology and other fields with an interest in material culture.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Broken Bodies,Places and Objects is a groundbreaking exploration of the fragmented world of prehistory and history, offering a comprehensive and up-to-date perspective on current archaeological thinking on the subject. The book showcases the diverse range of fragmentation and fragment usage across these eras, providing a deep insight into the complex tapestry of human history.

From the shattered remains of seals used by trade parties to the dog jaws accompanying the dead in Mesolithic burials, fragments of ancient warships commodified as souvenirs, and even parts of an ancient dynastic throne split up between different colonial collections, pieces of the past are scattered all around us. It is precisely because of their incomplete format that fragments hold a unique power. They can reference their original whole, but they can also evolve and take on new, unrelated meanings, creating a rich tapestry of history and culture.

The deliberate breakage of bodies, places, and objects for the use of fragments has been documented throughout history, spanning all time periods. Over two decades ago, John Chapman's seminal publication introduced fragmentation studies, and since then, the topic has gained increasing prominence in archaeology. This volume, the first European-wide review of fragmentation, presents a comprehensive collection of case studies from the Neolithic to Modernity, pushing the boundaries of fragmentation theory in exciting new directions.

Written for scholars and students in archaeology, as well as those with an interest in material culture in neighboring fields such as anthropology, history, cultural heritage studies, museology, art, and architecture, Broken Bodies, Places and Objects offers a valuable resource for understanding the fragmented world of the past. It sheds light on the complex processes of fragmentation, preservation, and interpretation, providing a deeper appreciation of the rich tapestry of human history and culture.

Weight: 718g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032394992