Two Chimeras in the Landscape

Mark Bell

Abstract


This article discusses the history of investigations into British linear earthworks in the twentieth century. The influence of pre-existing beliefs about the environment of Britain, especially the existence of impassable forest cover, deeply influenced the interpretation of linear monuments and had a lasting effect on the study of these monuments. A brief history of the personalities involved is followed by two case studies of monuments that were believed to be post-Roman in date but are now seen as Iron Age monuments. The implications of the change in the relationship to of the dykes to the landscape is discussed along with potential future research, better informed by an awareness of this confusing tradition of field archaeology.

Keywords


dykes; history of archaeology; landscape; linear earthworks

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.23914/odj.v2i0.282

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