Overview

This book explores the diverse understandings of the archaeological record in both historical and contemporary perspective, while also serving as a guide to reassessing current views.

Author's Perspective

Gavin Lucas argues that archaeological theory has become both too fragmented and disconnected from the particular nature of archaeological evidence.

Content and Approach

The book examines three ways of understanding the archaeological record - as historical sources, through formation theory and as material culture - then reveals ways to connect these three domains through a reconsideration of archaeological entities and archaeological practice.

Conclusion

Ultimately, Lucas calls for a rethinking of the nature of the archaeological record and the kind of history and narratives written from it.