Researching the Archaeological Past through Imagined Narratives: A Necessary Fiction

Archaeological interpretation is an imaginative act that requires the archaeologist to interpret stratigraphy and artifacts. This volume explores the relationship between archaeology and imagination through historical fiction and fictive techniques, highlighting the benefits of these approaches for the practice of archaeology. The authors argue that fiction and fictive techniques can help archaeologists to humanize the past, diversify archaeological narratives, and engage with wider publics. They also address the epistemological and ethical issues surrounding the influence of fiction on researchers and the incorporation of fictive techniques in their work.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 02 August 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Archaeological interpretation is an imaginative act that goes beyond the mere interpretation of stratigraphy and artifacts. It is the task of the archaeologist to delve into the past and reconstruct the experiences and lives of those who lived in different times and places. The diverse group of contributors to this volume explore the intricate relationship between archaeology and imagination through the medium of historical fiction and fictive techniques, both as consumers and as producers.

The fictionalization of archaeological research has been a common practice to disseminate the results of scholarly or commercial archaeology projects to a wider public audience. However, in this volume, the authors take a different approach. Instead of focusing on the fictionalization of archaeology for outreach purposes, they explore the potential benefits that fiction and fictive techniques can bring to the practice of archaeology itself.

The contributors, a mix of archaeologists, novelists, and other artists, present a range of theoretical arguments and examples to support their case. They discuss the similarities and differences in the motives and methods of archaeologists and novelists, the challenges of translation, empathy, and the need to humanize the past and diversify archaeological narratives. The authors are mindful of the epistemological and ethical issues surrounding the influence of fiction on researchers and the incorporation of fictive techniques in their work.

While some may dismiss the use of fictive techniques as mere distractions or relativistic narratives, the volume sets out to showcase the rich history and diverse applications of these approaches in archaeological research. Examples from various periods and regions are considered, demonstrating the potential of fiction and fictive techniques to enhance our understanding of the past and inspire new ways of thinking about archaeology.

The volume also emphasizes the need for explicit recognition of the problems and possibilities of such approaches. It encourages archaeologists to engage with fiction and fictive techniques not as a means of escapism or relativism but as a tool for critical reflection and exploration. By integrating these techniques into their research, archaeologists can gain new insights, challenge existing assumptions, and broaden the scope of their work.

In conclusion, this volume offers a thought-provoking exploration of the relationship between archaeology and imagination. It demonstrates the value of a reflexive engagement between these two fields and highlights the potential benefits that fiction and fictive techniques can bring to the practice of archaeology. By embracing these approaches, archaeologists can expand their horizons, challenge their assumptions, and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse understanding of the past.

Weight: 526g
Dimension: 232 x 155 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032081939