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Mediational techniques and conceptual frameworks in archaeology

A model in ‘mapwork’ at Teotihuacán, Mexico

Department of Cultural and Social Anthropology, Stanford University, USA

A recent trend in archaeology has been to turn reflexive attention upon the methods employed by archaeologists in field practice. In this article, I take a step back to consider the map as a fundamental conceptual framework that archaeologists utilize in directing their methods and formulating interpretations. I explore what a map ‘does' for the consideration of a site. I work around this question with the ‘Millon map’ of Teotihuacán, Mexico as a case study. Building upon ideas expressed by Alfred Gell and Roland Barthes, I argue that maps cannot be utilized as independent, self-contained media, as maps ‘work’ via an inherent mutuality of subjective and objective elements. In archaeological discourse, this is best expressed by the integration of photography and graphic representation. Finally, I offer an example of integrated ‘mapwork’ through a novel interpretation of space at Teotihuacán. It is reiterated that media such as maps operate as conceptual frameworks and so predispose certain interpretations. Acknowledging this recursive relationship between media and interpretation draws critical awareness to the media archaeologists employ and encourages the innovative use of mediational techniques to engage archaeological subjects.

Key Words: conceptual frameworks • map theory • mediation • reflexive analysis • space • subjectivity-objectivity • Teotihuacán • visual evidence

Journal of Social Archaeology, Vol. 5, No. 1, 52-84 (2005)
DOI: 10.1177/1469605305050143


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