Continuity and disjunction: Late Postclassic settlement patterns in northern Yucatan

Freidel, David A.

essay

Continuity and disjunction: Late Postclassic settlement patterns in northern Yucatan

lowland maya settlement patterns • Albuquerque • Published In 1981 • Pages: 311-332, 417-449

By: Freidel, David A..

Abstract
Freidel examines two major concepts in this document and its effect on Maya society -- that of continuity and disjunction. In this work continuity is discussed in terms of the cultural transition from the Classic to the Postcalssic period which had a profound effect at all levels of society. These effects on the general population were expressed in changing demographic patterns and the likelihood of the forced resettlement of indigenous peoples (p. 331). The disjunctive phase involves the disruption to Maya society that resulted from a series of invasions by outsiders that occurred during and following the collaspse of the southern lowland centers around 1100 B.P.-700 B.P. (900 A.D.- 1300 A.D.). These invaders attempted to forge new political entities on the Yucatan peninsula, although what was introduced or changed by these foreigners is a matter of continuing debate. This study, then, describes in detail the problematic role of continuity and disjunction in Maya society in relation to settlement patterns in Late Postclassic northern Yucatan. Selected aspects of social organization that are reflected spatially are also examined in this study, and special emphasis placed on the results of recent investigation of the settlement patterns on Cozumel Island off the northeast coast of the peninsula (p. 312).

Status, role, and prestige

Social relationships and groups

Territorial hierarchy

Postclassic Maya

HRAF PubDate

2001

Region