Rituals, Collapse, and Radical Transformation in Archaic States

Rituals, Collapse, and Radical Transformation in Archaic States explores the role of ritual in archaic states, highlighting similarities in the use of ritual during periods of threat, collapse, and transformation. The book provides a nuanced understanding of the diverse roles of ritual in the decline, collapse, and regeneration of societies and is important for archaeologists studying state collapse and regeneration.

Format: Hardback
Length: 226 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Rituals, Collapse, and Radical Transformation in Archaic States delves into the profound significance of ritual in various archaic states, sparking a lively discussion on the impact of a state's decline on ritual practices and the reciprocal influence of ritual on the decline, collapse, and regeneration of these states. The book explores the multifaceted roles of ritual in collapsing and regenerating archaic societies from diverse geographical locations, time periods, and cultural contexts, including Crete, Mycenean and Byzantine Greece, Mesopotamia, India, Africa, Mexico, and Peru. By highlighting commonalities in the use of ritual during periods of threat, collapse, and transformation across these archaic states, the volume demonstrates how ritual can serve as a stabilizing force, a catalyst for division, or a bridge connecting the present to the past, empowering individuals and communities. Furthermore, it underscores the diverse manifestations of ritual roles and locations in similar situations, illustrating how states with close cultural similarities may respond differently through ritual to stress and contrast their unique responses in rural and urban contexts.

Through comprehensive and culturally specific studies, this book offers a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted roles of ritual in the decline, collapse, and regeneration of societies. It is a valuable resource for archaeologists engaged in exploring the complex notions of state collapse and regeneration, providing valuable insights into the intricate interplay between ritual, power, and social change in archaic societies.

Weight: 598g
Dimension: 161 x 243 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367230265