Social Zooarchaeology

This is the first book to provide a systematic overview of social zooarchaeology which takes a holistic view of humananimal relations in the past. Until recently archaeological analysis of faunal evidence has primarily focused on the role of animals in the human diet and subsistence economy. This book however argues that animals have always played many more roles in human societies: as wealth companions spirit helpers sacrificial victims totems centerpieces of feasts objects of taboos and more. These social factors are as significant as taphonomic processes in shaping animal bone assemblages. Nerissa Russell uses evidence derived from not only zooarchaeology but also ethnography history and classical studies to suggest the range of humananimal relationships and to examine their importance in human society. Through exploring the significance of animals to ancient humans this book provides a richer picture of past societies.