Forgotten Peoples of the Ancient Mediterranean: Interview with Professor Peter van Dommelen
May 4, 2023
49:36
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Quick takeaways
Studying lesser-known ancient societies like those in Sardinia provides a more comprehensive understanding of the ancient Mediterranean beyond the dominant narrative of Greeks and Romans.
The Nuraghi, impressive stone towers in Sardinia, served various purposes and evolved over time, revealing the complexity of Sardinian society and its connections to other Mediterranean cultures.
Rural archaeology and local networks are essential for understanding the economic, social, and cultural dynamics of ancient Mediterranean societies, challenging the focus on major cities and highlighting the complexities and continuities of rural communities.
Deep dives
The Forgotten Societies of the Ancient Mediterranean
The podcast episode explores the importance of studying ancient societies beyond the well-known Greeks and Romans. It highlights the fascinating and sophisticated societies that have been forgotten or overlooked. The interview guest, Professor Van Damalen, specializes in the lesser-known societies of ancient Sardinia and discusses their interactions with other Mediterranean cultures. He emphasizes the significance of understanding these rural and indigenous societies, challenging the dominant narrative of classical texts. The episode reveals how investigating rural archaeology and local networks can provide a more comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the ancient Mediterranean.
The Enigmatic Nuraghi of Sardinia
Professor Van Damalen sheds light on the Nuraghi, large stone towers found throughout Sardinia, which are iconic and impressive structures. He explains that these towers served various functions, including defense, power statement, and everyday living spaces. The episode highlights ongoing research on the Nuraghi in the first millennium, revealing their evolution and interaction with the wider Mediterranean world. It emphasizes the complexity of Sardinian society during this period, with changes in material culture and connections to the Phoenicians and Greeks.
The Interplay between Local and Mediterranean Networks
The podcast episode explores the interplay between local rural communities and broader Mediterranean networks. It discusses the importance of studying rural archaeology and understanding the economic and social dynamics of local societies. Professor Van Damalen emphasizes the significance of identifying connections and exchanges within rural contexts, which are often overlooked in favor of major port cities. The episode delves into topics like migration, trade, and local identities, highlighting the complexities and continuities that exist beyond the urban centers of the ancient Mediterranean.
Challenging Linear Perspectives of Mediterranean History
The podcast episode challenges the linear and teleological perception of Mediterranean history, which often focuses on the Greeks and Romans as the main actors in shaping Western civilization. Professor Van Damalen encourages a more nuanced understanding of the past, considering the contributions and interactions of lesser-known societies and cultures. The episode emphasizes the need to reassess traditional narratives and explore the significance of various Mediterranean regions, periods, and social groups to gain a more comprehensive view of the ancient world.
The Future of Mediterranean Archaeology
Professor Van Damalen discusses the future of Mediterranean archaeology, highlighting the importance of exploring understudied regions, such as North Africa, and periods beyond the classical era. He advocates for more research on rural archaeology and the investigation of local connections and networks. The episode also touches upon the integration of new scientific techniques, like archaeoscientific and isotopic studies, and the need for collaboration with local communities. Ultimately, it encourages a multidisciplinary and inclusive approach to unravel the rich and diverse history of the Mediterranean.
When we think of the ancient Mediterranean, our minds first turn to familiar names, such as the Greeks and Romans. Yet the ancient world was full of peoples, all of them living in sophisticated societies that were no less interesting than those we we know well. Professor Peter van Dommelen is an expert in these less traveled places of the ancient world, especially Sardinia, and how they fit into the broader world beyond.
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