essay

In search of the ideology of the Adena-Hopewell climax

hopewell archaeology : the chillicothe conference • Kent, Ohio • Published In 1979 • Pages: 258-265

By: Hall, Robert L..

Abstract

Hall uses ethnographic analogies from the Old and New Worlds to interpret Adena-Hopewell burial mounds. Hall proposes bird designs and panpipes may relate to concepts of fertility, the use of special muds in burial mounds may be connected to creation myths (where mud from beneath the primordial waters is brought to the surface to form the first land) or world renewal rituals, and bone awls used to pin down skins or mats over burials is reminiscent of another creation myth (whereby Earthmaker held down the four corners of the world to hold it in place). Archaeological examples of these and other associations are given. ''Burial mounds' were regarded as the material expressions of prehistoric rituals that also served functions other than burial, most of which may probably be found represented in historic tribal ceremonies…' (page 265). Only the data pertaining to Hopewell or Hopewell-like artifacts were indexed for OCM (Outlline of Cultural Materials) subjects.

HRAF PubDate

2004

Region

North America

Sub Region

Eastern Woodlands

Document Type

essay

Evaluation

Creator Type

Archaeologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

Analyst

Sarah Berry ; 2003

Field Date

not specified

Coverage Date

Middle Woodland and the ethnographic present

Coverage Place

Illinois and Ohio; United States

Notes

Robert L. Hall

For bibliographical references see document 11: Brose and Greber

LCCN

79088607

LCSH

Hopewell culture