Phenomenology of shadow

Brown, D ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6564-3339, 2016. Phenomenology of shadow. Mediterranean Archaeology and Archaeometry, 16 (4), pp. 25-32. ISSN 1108-9628

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Abstract

Experiencing the landscape and skyscape in which for example an astronomically relevant ancient site is located allows for a deep exploration of possible meanings of embedded alignments. In Skyscape Archaeology phenomenology of the landscape is commonly used. Following from this approach and similar to the phenomenology of nature inspired by Goethe, a deep and detailed engagement with a site and standing stones can offer the opportunity to tap into meanings so far overlooked. The following will illustrate how the experience of shadows cast by and on a standing stone at Gardom’s Edge can add to an archaeoastronomical narrative. During the summer solstice the stone seems to lose its shadow or embody it in stone. When looking at anthropological evidence, the shadow can be an essential part of any living being. It becomes clear that a monument with a lost shadow has gained an added dimension of power and liminality; thereby possibly constraining its position within the landscape. Using this example, a more general phenomenology of shadows will be developed that can allow other researchers to find their way into a deeper and richer engagement with a site or monument. Ultimately, it will allow another avenue towards skyscape archaeology.

Item Type:	Journal article
Publication Title:	Mediterranean Archaeology and Archaeometry
Creators:	Brown, D.
Publisher:	University of the Aegean, Rhodes, Department of Mediterranean Studies
Date:	2016
Volume:	16
Number:	4
ISSN:	1108-9628
Identifiers:	Number Type 10.5281/zenodo.207269 DOI
Divisions:	Schools > School of Science and Technology
Record created by:	Linda Sullivan
Date Added:	06 Jan 2017 14:16
Last Modified:	09 Jun 2017 14:10
URI:	https://irep.ntu.ac.uk/id/eprint/29590

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