Archaeology and place
While landscape has long been an active field of study within archaeology, little attention has been given to place. However, as conceptions of landscapes become increasingly nuanced and complex, it becomes increasingly appropriate to shift the focus of analysis to place in order to better engage with the experiential, sensory, and emotive aspects of lived spaces and worlds. Furthermore, place encourages a broader perspective and holistic approach in which the past and present are intertwined and therefore equally significant to interpretations. This thesis investigates the relationship between archaeology and senses of place in order to examine the ways in which the remains of the past are relevant to the present. Two Irish islands - Valentia Island and Achill Island - are explored through engagement with their archaeological landscapes, historical research, and ethnography. The study shows that conceptions of the islands as places are characterised by perceptions and relationships with their pasts. Furthermore, both places are largely identified by their more recent histories, particularly the 19th century, demonstrating the importance of historical and contemporary archaeology. In short, this study shows
Miller, Jeffrey Allen
Archaeology and place. While landscape has long been an active field of study within archaeology, little attention has been given to place. However, as conceptions of landscapes become increasingly nuanced and complex, it becomes increasingly appropriate to shift the focus of analysis to place in order to better engage with the experiential, sensory, and emotive aspects of lived spaces and worlds. Furthermore, place encourages a broader perspective and holistic approach in which the past and present are intertwined and therefore equally significant to interpretations. This thesis investigates the relationship between archaeology and senses of place in order to examine the ways in which the remains of the past are relevant to the present. Two Irish islands - Valentia Island and Achill Island - are explored through engagement with their archaeological landscapes, historical research, and ethnography. The study shows that conceptions of the islands as places are characterised by perceptions and relationships with their pasts. Furthermore, both places are largely identified by their more recent histories, particularly the 19th century, demonstrating the importance of historical and contemporary archaeology. In short, this study shows
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