The residue of ritualised action : Neolithic deposition practices in the Middle Thames Valley

This study characterises deposition practices in the Middle Thames Valley (England) from the late Mesolithic to early Bronze Age. All available in situ contexts of deposition are considered, such as pits, tree-throw holes, middens, rivers and various monument forms. The study highlights variations in the formality of deposition within contemporary contexts and considers how this relates to ritual activity. Developments in deposition practices are also considered through time from the late Mesolithic to early Bronze Age and processes of ritualisation are explored. This contextual analysis is used as a basis to explore several pertinent issues in Neolithic studies. Deposition practices are used to explore chronological changes in the temporal rhythms of occupation and economy and also variation and developments in funerary and mortuary activity. The use and perception of landscapes in the Middle Thames Valley during the Neolithic are also considered and distinct conceptual changes in relation to these landscapes are highlighted. Deposition practices in the Middle Thames Valley are contrasted with surrounding regions to demonstrate distinct regional patterns. It is argued that differences in deposition practices reflect how aspects of the environment were perceived and the role they held in achieving social reproduction. Front Cover Title Page Copyright Table of Contents List of Figures List of Plates List of Tables Acknowledgements Abstract Part I Chapter 1: The residue of ritualised action: an introduction Part II Chapter 3: Natural places – unaltered landscapes Chapter 4: Beneath the surface Chapter 5: Monuments: form, structure and material culture Chapter 6: Chronological summaries of deposition practices Part III Chapter 7: Themes in the Neolithic of the Middle Thames Valley Chapter 8: On the horizon: regional perspectives Appendix 1: Archaeological features and monuments in the Middle Thames Valley Bibliography Hugo Lamdin-whymark. Originally Presented As The Author's Thesis (doctoral--university Of Reading). Includes Bibliographical References (p. 227-239).