FEARFUL SYMMETRY

Authors
Citation
Pm. Gravesbrown, FEARFUL SYMMETRY, World archaeology, 27(1), 1995, pp. 88-99
Citations number
28
Language
INGLESE
art.tipo
Article
Categorie Soggetti
Archaeology,Archaeology
Journal title
ISSN journal
0043-8243
Volume
27
Issue
1
Year of publication
1995
Pages
88 - 99
Database
ISI
SICI code
0043-8243(1995)27:1<88:FS>2.0.ZU;2-5
Abstract
In opposition to the fashion for semiotic analyses of material culture , I argue that the meaning of artefacts is not necessarily 'symbolic' - that this term applies only to a particular class of meaning. In my view the development of industrial cultures has created a false dualit y between the aesthetic and the functional which in turn has allowed a mistaken distinction between objects and their meanings. Meaning has become reified. On the contrary, I argue, meaning exists in the dynami c relationship between actors and material culture, and is not exclusi vely the preserve of one or the other. In turn, this relationship cons titutes the basis of exploration and understanding; both the mundane i mplement and the work of art should guide us to extend our comprehensi on of the world.