Aegean prehistory has developed over the 20th century into a distinctive
and vibrant area of archaeological research. The past few decades, in
particular, have seen a dramatic reorientation and expansion of goals
and methods as well as a flood of new fieldwork in the Agean. Keeping
abreast of these new developments has become a daunting task. Aegean
Prehistory: A Review contains detailed syntheses of research,
originally published in the American Journal of Archaeology and newly
updated here. The volume conveys the diversity and richness of current
approaches to the discipline of Aegean prehistory whilst also
marshalling an enormous amount of information pertaining to field
projects, museum studies, analyses of materials and texts, and
supporting theories of interpretation. An introduction by Tracey Cullen
places the review articles in historical perspective, tracing the
evolution of Aegean prehistory from the 19th century to the present. The
author also considers the current status of the discipline--its
relationships with classical archaeology and anthropology, and the
manner in which it is shaped by various sociopolitical forces. Aegean
Prehistory: A Review is a powerful research tool for the exploration of
Aegean themes. With its expansive and detailed coverage, the book
constitutes essential reading for professionals and students of Aegean
prehistory. It will also be of great interest to all who wish to learn
more about intellectual trends and current discoveries in this part of
the Mediterranean. Perhaps most important, Aegean Prehistory: A Review
provides a solid foundation upon which Aegean archaeology can build as
it continues to thrive in the coming years.
