Subject
Anthropology -- History Books
Best books
Alfred C. (Alfred Cort) Haddon
History of anthropology
"History of Anthropology" by Alfred C. Haddon and A. Hingston Quiggin is a scholarly historical account written in the early 20th century. This work serves as one of the first attempts to chronicle the development of anthropology, exploring its various branches and the contributions of foundational figures in the field. The book likely addresses both the evolution of anthropological thought and the significant debates that have shaped the discipline over time. At the start of the book, the authors express their hesitance in presenting a comprehensive history of anthropology, acknowledging the vastness of the subject and the challenges inherent in selecting which key figures and concepts to include. They introduce the allegory of a waste lot transforming into a factory to illustrate the growth of anthropological knowledge from chaos to coherence. The opening portion also emphasizes the importance of both fieldwork and theoretical contributions, mentioning notable pioneers such as Aristotle, Hippocrates, and Vesalius who laid the groundwork for the scientific study of humanity. Their aim is to provide a structured overview while recognizing the complexities and ongoing debates within anthropology.
Arthur Evans
Anthropology and the Classics Six Lectures Delivered Before the University of Oxford
"Anthropology and the Classics" by Arthur J. Evans, Andrew Lang, Gilbert Murray, F.B. Jevons, J.L. Myres, and Warde Fowler is a collection of scholarly lectures delivered at the University of Oxford in the early 20th century. The work delves into the intersection of anthropology and classical studies, focusing on how anthropological insights can illuminate the understanding of ancient Greek and Roman cultures. The book aims to encourage classical scholars to engage with the anthropological perspective, highlighting the significance of lower cultures for a comprehensive view of social evolution. The opening of the text presents a detailed preface that outlines the authors' intentions and the overarching themes of the lectures. It discusses the relationship between anthropology and the humanities, arguing for cooperative exploration of cultural dimensions from both fields. It introduces key figures in the lectures and emphasizes the need to bridge the knowledge of simpler cultures with the complex legacies of ancient Athens and Rome. By laying this foundation, the opening sets the stage for subsequent analyses of topics, such as the evolution of writing systems and ancient rituals, which will be explored in the following lectures.
John Russell Bartlett
The Progress of Ethnology An Account of Recent Archaeological, Philological and Geographical Researches in Various Parts of the Globe, Tending to Elucidate the Physical History of Man
"The Progress of Ethnology" by John Russell Bartlett is a scientific publication written in the mid-19th century. The book provides a detailed account of recent advancements in ethnological studies, focusing on a variety of archaeological, philological, and geographical research conducted across different parts of the globe. It aims to shed light on the physical history of humanity and discusses various ancient cultures and their artifacts. At the start of this work, the author presents a comprehensive overview of recently conducted explorations in North America, detailing significant archaeological discoveries in regions such as Ohio, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Bartlett highlights the groundbreaking efforts of individuals like Dr. Davis and Mr. E.G. Squier, who excavated ancient mounds and earthworks, revealing essential insights into the practices, culture, and civilization of the mound builders. The opening sets a tone of inquiry and scientific investigation, suggesting that it will delve into the complexities of human history and the relationships between modern societies and their ancient predecessors.
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