Social Zooarchaeology Humans and Animals in Prehistory |
|
Author:
| Russell, Nerissa |
ISBN: | 978-0-521-14311-0 |
Publication Date: | Nov 2011 |
Publisher: | Cambridge University Press
|
Book Format: | Paperback |
List Price: | USD $65.99 |
Book Description:
|
This is the first book to provide a systematic overview of social zooarchaeology, which takes a holistic view of human-animal relations in the past. Until recently, archaeological analysis of faunal evidence has primarily focused on the role of animals in the human diet and subsistence economy. This book, however, argues that animals have always played many more roles in human societies: as wealth, companions, spirit helpers, sacrificial victims, totems, centerpieces of feasts, objects...
More DescriptionThis is the first book to provide a systematic overview of social zooarchaeology, which takes a holistic view of human-animal relations in the past. Until recently, archaeological analysis of faunal evidence has primarily focused on the role of animals in the human diet and subsistence economy. This book, however, argues that animals have always played many more roles in human societies: as wealth, companions, spirit helpers, sacrificial victims, totems, centerpieces of feasts, objects of taboos, and more. Through exploring the significance of animals to ancient humans, this book provides a richer picture of past societies.