Modelling Identities: A Case Study from the Iron Age of South-East Europe

This volume investigates the construction of group identity in Late La Tène South-East Europe using an innovative statistical modelling method, based on death and burial theory. It includes a specially crated database of 370 graves and grave-good information, aiming to show the compatibility of archaeological theory and statistical modelling.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 05 June 2018
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate process of constructing group identity in Late La Tène South-East Europe through an innovative statistical modeling approach. The foundation of this study lies in the realm of death and burial theory, recognizing the immense potential of mortuary practices for identity research. The research sample for this volume comprises a meticulously curated database containing 370 graves, each meticulously documented with information about funerary rituals and grave goods. In the case of grave goods, a hierarchical categorization system was employed to describe each item by amalgamating functional and typological characteristics.

Furthermore, this volume seeks to demonstrate the harmonious integration of archaeological theory and statistical modeling, a relationship that is often overlooked in the realm of archaeological discourse. The discussions stemming from archaeological theory rarely find methodological applications through statistical methods. However, in this volume, theoretical considerations play a pivotal role in the entire process of data preparation, method development, and result interpretation.

By employing a rigorous statistical modeling framework, the volume explores the complex interplay between social, cultural, and demographic factors in shaping group identity during the Late La Tène period. The analysis employs advanced statistical techniques, such as multivariate analysis and Bayesian inference, to examine the relationships between burial practices, grave goods, and other archaeological evidence. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of the processes that contributed to the formation and evolution of group identities in this region.

The findings presented in this volume shed light on the diverse practices and beliefs of different communities within Late La Tène South-East Europe. The study reveals the significance of funerary rituals and grave goods in constructing and expressing group identity, as well as the role of social networks and inter-community relationships in shaping these practices. The volume also highlights the challenges and limitations of using statistical modeling in archaeological research, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of data quality, sample selection, and theoretical frameworks.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume offers a valuable contribution to the field of archaeological identity research. By employing innovative statistical modeling techniques and integrating theoretical considerations, it provides a deeper understanding of the complex processes that shaped group identity in Late La Tène South-East Europe. The findings have significant implications for our understanding of ancient societies and their social dynamics, and they offer valuable insights into the ways in which archaeological evidence can be used to reconstruct and interpret the past.

Weight: 596g
Dimension: 235 x 181 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783319632650
Edition number: 1st ed. 2018