Description

Current Studies in Archaeoastronomy: Conversations Across Time and Space John W. Fountain ISBN 9780890897713

The Oxford Conferences are a series of triennial gatherings dedicated to exploring the role of astronomical phenomena in human societies—ranging from practical applications, such as calendars and orientation, to ceremonial aspects, including the symbolic significance of the “ritual landscape” of the sky. These conferences bring together scholars from anthropology, archaeology, history, prehistory, archaeoastronomy, and related fields who share a common interest in how celestial observation has shaped traditional societies, past and present.

Human fascination with the sky has long been a central influence on culture and daily life. The Fifth Oxford Conference focused on this fascination within cultures that can be studied primarily through archaeology and anthropology. Archaeoastronomy contributes a unique dimension to these disciplines, enriching our understanding of the past and providing a more nuanced view of human cultural development.

The papers in this volume are drawn from presentations at Oxford V and reflect the dynamic exchange of ideas among participants. Some contributions address broad sociological or astronomical questions, establishing a framework for the collection, while the remaining papers present detailed case studies from diverse regions around the world.

Current Studies in Archaeoastronomy: Conversations Across Time and Space John W. Fountain ISBN 9780890897713, 978-0890897713 & 978-08908-97713

Authors
John W. Fountain
Rolf M. Sinclair