History and Material Culture: A Student's Guide to Approaching Alternative Sources

by Karen Harvey (Editor)

Sources are the raw material of History, but whereas the written word has traditionally been seen as the principal source, historians now recognize the value of sources beyond text. In this new edition of History and Material Culture , contributors consider a range of objects – from an eighteenth-century bed curtain to a twenty-first-century shopping trolley – which can help historians develop new interpretations and new knowledge about the past. Containing two new chapters on healing objects in East Africa and the shopping trolley in the social world, this book examines a variety of material sources from around the globe and across centuries to assess how such sources can be used to study the distant and the recent past. In a revised introduction, Karen Harvey discusses some of the principal issues raised when historians use material culture, particularly in the context of 'the material turn', and suggests some initial steps for those unfamiliar with these kinds of sources. While the sources are discussed from interdisciplinary perspectives, the emphasis of the book is on what historians stand to gain from using material culture, as well as what historians have to offer the broader study of material culture. Clearly written and accessible, this book is the ideal introduction to the opportunities and challenges of researching material culture, and is essential reading for all students of historical theory and method.

Genres: History, Art History

262 pages, Paperback

First published March 10, 2009

Reviews

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

As is the case with most collections, some of the essays are stronger than others. Harvey does a nice job framing the collection, but there is a little unevenness among the contributors' works.

[Gretchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aimed more towards history students, this book covers basic methodologies of study material culture through examples. I liked it, but I'm not sure how helpful it was for an art history thesis, since I do need to remember that I'm getting an art history degree and should probably work that in there somewhere. Regardless, the book was quite readable and things were readily explained. Would certainly recommend to anyone who thought they might write a either a thesis or even a serious research paper using material culture approaches.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great anthology of essays to introduce history students to using objects as sources in their research. It provides examples of material culture from the East and West. Despite what a slim volume it is, it covers substantial ground.

[Dan Gorman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dry, but interesting ideas about using artifacts in history.