Emergence of Social Complexity Flashcards
What is Stonehenge?
Type of monumental architecture called a megalith in England built by Neolithic farmers that demonstrates a strong leadership to organize the labour-force needed to build this structure
Summarize the construction of Stone Henge
(1) Earthen bank is built measuring 110m across with 56 Aubrey holes placed along the interior of the circle with cremated remains inside
(2) huge alter of stones added 2500BC
(3) The standing stones were capped with lintel stones
(4) double row of bluestones forming an arc within the standing stone circle
What is the Avenue?
A processional route that people followed approaching the Stone Henge built following the addition of the sarsen stones to the monument; the 3km long avenue connects Stonehenge to the River Avon
What year were the Bluestones rearranged?
2200 BC
What is the source of the stones used in Stone Henge?
The sarsen stones are from an area about 30km North of Stonehenge called Marlborough Downs. The Bluestones are sourced from western Wales in an area called the Preseli Mountains
Describe the construction methods of Stone Henge.
The builders used a combination of levers, ropes, and combined strength of many people.
Hammer stones were used to shape the stones.
What was the burial ground and builder’s dwelling outside of Stonehenge called?
The Cursus and Durrington wall (respectively)
What is the Amesbury Archer?
A high status individual buried 5km from Stone Henge with extensive grave goods. Artifacts suggest he was an archer and metalworker. Migrated from the Alps to Britain. Buried with Britains first gold artifacts.
True or false? The burial nearby the Amesbury Archer was a sibling and buried with matching gold earrings.
False: believed to be a relative based on unique foot structure, possibly a grandson?
