ABSTRACT

Theory in Africa, Africa in Theory explores the place of Africa in archaeological theory, and the place of theory in African archaeology. The centrality of Africa to global archaeological thinking is highlighted, with a particular focus on materiality and agency in contemporary interpretation. As a means to explore the nature of theory itself, the volume also addresses differences between how African models are used in western theoretical discourse and the use of that theory within Africa.  Providing a key contribution to theoretical discourse through a focus on the context of theory-building, this volume explores how African modes of thought have shaped our approaches to a meaningful past outside of Africa.

A timely intervention into archaeological thought, Theory in Africa, Africa in Theory deconstructs the conventional ways we approach the past, positioning the continent within a global theoretical discourse and blending Western and African scholarship. This volume will be a valuable resource for those interested in the archaeology of Africa, as well as providing fresh perspectives to those interested in archaeological theory more generally.

part I|52 pages

Disciplinary engagements with Africa

part II|120 pages

Theory in Africa

chapter 5|17 pages

Problems with practice

Dynamic interpretation in African archaeology

chapter 6|18 pages

Situating the Swahili house

chapter 8|26 pages

Settlements and culture

Cognitive models in African prehistory

chapter 10|17 pages

What kind of science is archaeology?

Iron Age studies in southern africa

part III|95 pages

Africa in archaeological theory

chapter 11|26 pages

Iron Age imaginaries and barbarian encounters

British prehistory's African past

chapter 12|31 pages

The African State in theory

Thoughts on political landscapes and the limits of rule in Atlantic Senegal (and elsewhere)

chapter 13|20 pages

Broadening the archaeological perspective

Some lessons from the sub-Saharan African landscape?

chapter 14|16 pages

Off the coast, but hopefully not too off-the-cuff

Thoughts on anthropological archaeology and theory in practice in Africa

part IV|27 pages

Commentary

chapter 16|16 pages

Anthropology, archaeology and African studies

Some thoughts on theory, stuff and the possibilities of a new Afro-centrism