Oxford Handbook of Neolithic Europe

The Neolithic period in Europe has been a major focus of archaeological research for over a century, but the diversity of evidence and languages makes it difficult to gain a comprehensive overview. The Oxford Handbook of Neolithic Europe provides a comprehensive, geographically extensive, thematic overview of the European Neolithic, covering topics such as movement of plants, animals, ideas, and people, cultural change, domestic architecture, subsistence, material culture, monuments, and burial. It also considers the history of research and sets out agendas for future work in the field.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 1200 pages
Publication date: 10 January 2019
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Neolithic, a transformative era in human history, witnessed the establishment of the first settled agrarian communities across vast regions of Europe. For over a century, archaeological research has been diligently pursued to unravel the mysteries of this period. However, the diverse evidence scattered across Europe, the multitude of languages involved, and the distinct research traditions in different countries present a formidable challenge for both students and specialists seeking to grasp a comprehensive understanding of continent-wide trends. To address this gap, the Oxford Handbook of Neolithic Europe emerges as a groundbreaking resource, offering a comprehensive, geographically extensive, and thematic exploration of the European Neolithic. Spanning from Iberia to Russia, from Norway to Malta, this handbook provides a holistic introduction while delving into critical issues and ongoing debates surrounding evidence interpretation.

Chapters authored by esteemed experts in the field delve into diverse topics, encompassing the movement of plants, animals, ideas, and people, including recent advancements in genetics and isotope analyses. The volume also explores cultural change, from the emergence of farming to the production of the first metal artifacts, shedding light on the societal transformations that occurred during this period. Domestic architecture, subsistence strategies, material culture, monuments, and burial practices are examined in depth, providing a rich tapestry of insights into the lives and customs of Neolithic societies.

In addition to its analytical content, the handbook also considers the historical trajectory of research in the field, outlining past achievements and setting forth agendas and themes for future endeavors. By consolidating knowledge and expertise, the Oxford Handbook of Neolithic Europe serves as a valuable tool for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for this pivotal period in human history.

Weight: 2324g
Dimension: 178 x 251 x 59 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198832492