ABSTRACT

Sarah Nelson, recognized as one of the key figures in studying gender in the ancient world and women in archaeology, brings together much of the work she has done over three decades into a single volume. The book covers her theoretical contributions, her extensive studies of gender in the archaeology of East Asia, and her literary work on the subject. Included with the selections of her writing-- taken from diverse articles and books published in a variety of places-- is an illuminating commentary about the development of her professional and personal understanding of how gender plays out in ancient societies and modern universities and her current thinking on both topics.

part I|9 pages

Introduction: Learning the Field and Breaking Taboos

part II|14 pages

Social Archaeology Gives Birth to Gender Archaeology

part III|38 pages

Figurines and Equity Issues: Measuring Gender

part V|34 pages

Gender in Archaeology Spreads

part VI|24 pages

Perspectives from China

part VII|46 pages

Shamans and Ideology

chapter 8|16 pages

Feasting the Ancestors in Early China

chapter 9|22 pages

What Is a Shaman?

part VIII|44 pages

Archaeological Stories

chapter 10|9 pages

Spirit Bird Journey (Excerpts)

chapter 11|8 pages

Jade Dragon (Excerpts)

chapter 12|2 pages

The Jade Phoenix (Excerpt)

chapter |2 pages

Afterword