Ancient Lives

Written in an easy-to-read, jargron-free style interlaced with the author’s first-hand archaeology experiences, this introduction to the most fundamental principles, methods, and theoretical approaches of archaeology is designed for the complete beginner. Featuring truly global coverage–reflected in examples from all parts of the world–it paints a compelling portrait of archaeology, science, and the past. Readers gain a basic grounding in the conceptual, technical, and ethical aspects of the subject; the career opportunities it offers; and some of the spectacular, and not-so-well known, discoveries that illuminate our past. “Doing Archeology” boxes and a brief guide to archaeological Web resources provide a hands-on perspective. What Happened in Prehistory? What Is Archaeology? Culture and the Archaeological Record. How Old Is It? How Do Cultures Change? Ancient Environments. Finding the Past. Digging Up the Past. Artifacts of the Ancients. How Did People Live? Settlement and Landscape. People of the Past. The Archaeology of the Intangible. So You Want to Become and Archaeologist! For general readers interested in the concepts and methods of archaeology.