Archaeological Investigation

The second edition of Archaeological Investigation thoroughly updates the theory, aims and methods of field archaeology in the academic and commercial sectors. Now co-authored by Madeleine Hummler, the book’s scope has been enlarged and updated, reaching out into different kinds of archaeological investigation being practised the world over.

Divided into four parts, Part 1 (Principles) sets the scene for newcomers, showing the axial role of fieldwork in rediscovering the past. Part 2 (In the Field) is aimed at those setting out to collect primary data by the diverse methods of modern survey and excavation. Word pictures on “First day in the field’ and “First day on a dig” provide friendly introductions to the high-tech enterprise that fieldwork has become. Now fully engaged in the process, newcomers to archaeology are ready to take part in the process of making the discoveries known: Part 3 (Writing Up). Here all the results of fieldwork are marshalled to analyse the finds, the use of space and the chronology of what happened. The results are then combined in a synthesis and communicated through websites, museums, the display of sites and above all through publication. Part 4 (Design) engages the reader in archaeology's leading action: how to design projects that conserve, rediscover and explain the human past. The final chapter (The Profession) reviews the role of the state, the academy, the commercial sector and the public in making archaeology happen, with the focus on the opportunities and rewards of working as a full-time archaeologist.

Building on the authors’ extensive experience, Archaeological Investigation remains an inspiring, provocative, informative and entertaining book for students and professional, urging that archaeological investigation highly relevant to contemporary society.