Experimental Archaeology

Bibliographic Data

ID11739588
AuthorsSilje Evjenth Bentsen (0000-0001-6394-4437, University of Bergen, corresponding author)
Year2024
Publication date2024-04-16
Open AccessNo
TypeCHAPTER
PublisherOxford University PressNew York, NY (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1093/acrefore/9780190854584.013.325
OpenAlexW4394840913
ISBN9780190854584
LanguageEN
Citations received10
References cited1

Scientific definitions of “experimental archaeology” emphasize key words such as exploring, testing, and imitation. Archaeological data and observations are key elements in experiments, whether the researcher is testing hypotheses derived from archaeological deposits or objects, innovative approaches to documentation and excavation, or the formation of and post-depositional processess affecting the archaeological record. Experiments can be conducted in sterile laboratory settings, with strict control of variables and materials, or in actualistic settings replicating the conditions of the prehistoric settings. Laboratory and actualistic experiments are complementary, allowing testing of different aspects of hypotheses and materials, and it is often essential to explore an archaeological phenomenon through experiments in both settings. Studying fire-cracked rocks and heating of different rock types, for example, can benefit from both heating experiments in a laboratory furnace, allowing observations of temperature thresholds for thermal alterations, and an open-air fire, allowing recording of how a live fire with temperature changes and smoke affects rocks. A third type of experiment is digital, made possible through virtual models and allowing one to replicate and test multiple variables within a controlled setting. Experimental archaeology also includes non-academic approaches to exploring the past. It contains elements educational both for the person(s) conducting the experiments and for people watching, reading, or in other ways learning about the experiment and its results. Some experiments are experiential—that is, re-enactments or performances. These re-enactments can be part of an educational program, such as demonstrating prehistoric living conditions at an open-air museum, or they may be initiated by, and important to, the experience of the re-enactors. Experiential archaeology has elements of perceived time travel and can be a recreational activity

Archaeology · Geography · Archaeology and ancient environmental studies · Computer Science · Conservation Techniques and Studies · Pleistocene-Era Hominins and Archaeology · Geology

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