Principles of Archaeological Stratigraphy

by Edward C. Harris

This book is the only text devoted entirely to archaeological stratigraphy, a subject of fundamental importance to most studies in archaeology. The first edition appeared in 1979 as a result of the invention, by the author, of the Harris Matrix--a method for analyzing and presenting the stratigraphic sequences of archaeological sites. The method is now widely used in archaeology all over the world.The opening chapters of this edition discuss the historical development of the ideas of archaeological stratigraphy. The central chapters examine the laws and basic concepts of the subject, and the last few chapters look at methods of recording stratification, constructing stratigraphic sequences, and the analysis of stratification and artifacts.The final chapter, which is followed by a glossary of stratigraphic terms, gives an outline of a modern system for recording stratification on archaeological sites. This book is written in a simple style suitable for the student or amateur. The radical ideas set out should also give the professional archaeologist food for thought.

Key Features* Covers a basic principle of all archaeological excavations* Provides a data description and analysis tool for all such digs, which is now widely accepted and used.* Gives extra information

Genres: Archaeology, Nonfiction

170 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Luke Munson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is dry, obviously. It’s literally discussing the laws and methods of studying layers of dirt. But it is an absolutely crucial read for any student of archaeology, and could be widely helpful for anyone interested in the subject. The book provides a straightforward methodology for the excavation, documentation, and analysis of any archaeological site, and in doing so, fixed problems that the archaeological community at the time was not focused upon. The book is required reading, even if it may not be a roller coaster ride

[Anna P · Rating 2 out of 5]

Harris you were dull as a doorknob and utterly confusing for the sake of being a nuanced academic. Egotistical too.

[Callie R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very straight-forward, well-written and practical. A must-read for any emerging archaeologist.