European Prehistory: A Survey

Description

European Prehistory: A Survey traces humans from their earliest appearance on the continent to the Rise of the Roman Empire, drawing on archaeological research from all over Europe. It includes the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, Bronze and Iron Ages. Throughout these periods, the major developments are explored using a wide range of archaeological data that emphasizes aspects of agricultural practices, gender, mortuary practices, population genetics, ritual, settlement patterns, technology, trade, and warfare. Using new methods and theories, recent discoveries and arguments are presented and previous discoveries reevaluated. This work includes chapters on European geography and the chronology of European prehistory. A new chapter has been added on the historical development of European archaeology. The remaining chapters have been contributed by archaeologists specializing in different periods. The second edition of European Prehistory: A Survey is enhanced by a glossary, three indices and a comprehensive bibliography, as well as an extensive collection of maps, chronological tables and photographs. Front Matter....Pages i-xv Introduction....Pages 1-6 Historical Observations on European Archaeology....Pages 7-21 The Present Environment: A Geographic Summary....Pages 23-29 The Lower and Middle Paleolithic....Pages 31-65 The Upper Paleolithic....Pages 67-124 The Mesolithic....Pages 125-151 Early Neolithic, the First Farmers in Europe, 7000–5500/5000 BC....Pages 153-221 Middle Neolithic/Early Copper Age, Continuity, Diversity, and Greater Complexity, 5500/5000–3500 BC....Pages 223-291 Late Neolithic/Late Copper Age 3500–2200 BC....Pages 293-325 The Bronze Age....Pages 327-403 The Iron Age....Pages 405-460 Conclusion....Pages 461-464 Back Matter....Pages 465-493