Approaches to Sensory Landscape Archaeology

Publication Date

9-1-2012

Authors

Jessica Faycurry, University of New Hampshire, Durham

Abstract

As the medium through which humans interact with the physical world, senses are crucial to explore when trying to understand the beings that embody them. Senses are the middlemen through which humans register their surroundings, perform activities crucial for survival, and interact with the world and it’s inhabitants. The phenomenon of senses, although shared among all humans, can be very personal and informative of individual life histories. The scent of cinnamon, for example, can evoke memories of childhood for some, while for others there is no connection. Senses are physically natured but culturally constructed. Colors, tastes, and sounds can hold completely different meanings to different peoples and cultures. Altogether, senses are an undeniably important component of human existence. As such, sensory discourse has led to an interesting accumulation of data, literature, and discoveries. Emerging from this mass of literature is sensory archaeology bringing with it much potential.

Recommended Citation

Faycurry, Jessica (2012) "Approaches to Sensory Landscape Archaeology," Spectrum: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 6.
Available at: https://scholars.unh.edu/spectrum/vol2/iss1/6