Temporary Palaces: The Great House in European Prehistory

The Great Houses of the prehistoric and early medieval periods were enormous structures whose forms were modelled on those of domestic dwellings. They were built of wood rather than stone, used over comparatively short periods, and frequently replaced in the same positions. Their construction made considerable demands on human labour and approached the limits of what was possible at the time. This study focuses on the monumental buildings of northern and northwestern Europe, drawing on structures over a wide area, from Anatolia to Brittany and Norway. It employs ethnography as a source of ideas and discusses the concept of the House Society and its usefulness in archaeology. The main examples are taken from the Neolithic and Iron Age periods, but this account also draws on the archaeology of the first millennium AD. The book emphasises the importance of comparing archaeological sequences with one another rather than identifying ideal social types.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2021
Publisher: Oxbow Books

The Great Houses of the prehistoric and early medieval periods were colossal structures that bore resemblance to domestic dwellings in their design. These structures were predominantly constructed from wood rather than stone, served a relatively short lifespan, were frequently replaced in the same locations, and were often accompanied by remarkable collections of artifacts. The construction of these awe-inspiring edifices placed significant demands on human labor, pushing the boundaries of what was achievable at the time. While their exact functions and purposes remain somewhat enigmatic, it is evident that they played specialized roles in ancient society.

The question of whether these Great Houses were public buildings or the residences of prominent individuals remains a subject of debate. Some scholars argue that they were used as temples or military bases, while others suggest that they were the dwellings of important people. The timing of their erection during times of crisis or change further adds to the complexity of their interpretation.

The selection of sites for these Great Houses and their relationship to the remains of a more ancient past are also intriguing aspects of this study. The sites chosen often reflected the political, social, and economic significance of the communities that constructed them. These structures were often situated in strategic locations, such as along trade routes or near sources of natural resources, which further contributed to their importance.

Despite the variations in their design, construction materials, and location, the Great Houses share remarkable similarities. These similarities extend from the time of the first farmers to the Viking Age, highlighting the enduring cultural and architectural heritage of northern and northwestern Europe.

This study explores the monumental buildings of northern and northwestern Europe, drawing on structures from a wide geographical area, including Anatolia, Brittany, and Norway. Ethnography serves as a valuable source of ideas, and the concept of the House Society is discussed to provide insights into the archaeology of these structures. The primary examples cited in this account are drawn from the Neolithic and Iron Age periods, although the archaeology of the first millennium AD is also incorporated.

One of the key themes emphasized in this book is the importance of comparing archaeological sequences rather than seeking to identify ideal social types. By examining the similarities and differences between various sites, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the complex social and cultural dynamics that shaped these ancient societies.

The book features a diverse range of famous and lesser-known sites, showcasing the architectural and cultural richness of this region. Examples include Stonehenge, the Hill of Tara, Old Uppsala, and Yeavering, each of which offers unique insights into the history and development of these Great Houses.

In conclusion, the Great Houses of the prehistoric and early medieval periods were enormous structures that played specialized roles in ancient society. Their construction demanded considerable human labor and pushed the boundaries of what was possible at the time. While their functions and purposes remain enigmatic, these structures offer valuable insights into the social, cultural, and architectural heritage of northern and northwestern Europe. By comparing archaeological sequences and examining the similarities and differences between various sites, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shaped these ancient societies.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789256611