Megaliths, myths, and men: An introduction to astro-archaeology (Harper colophon books, CN 578)

by Peter Lancaster Brown

Paperback, 1978

Status

Available

Call number

GN799.A8 L36

Publication

Harper & Row (1978), Edition: First Edition, 324 pages

Description

As commonly used, the term "megaliths" refers to huge, free-standing, neolithic stones whose origin and meaning have long been debated by archaeologists and students of prehistory. Perhaps the most famous neolithic site is Stonehenge, the great circle of giant stones on Salisbury Plain in England. Twentieth-century studies of Stonehenge and other megalithic monuments have given rise to the science of astra-archaeology, i.e, the study of early astronomical knowledge through the interpretation of ancient monuments and other archaeological data. The present volume, by a noted British astronomer, provides a unique introduction to this fascinating discipline. The heart of the book is devoted to a detailed study of Stonehenge (six chapters alone), along with scores of equally mysterious megalithic rings and earthworks scattered throughout the British Isles and northwestern France. Enhanced with more than 140 photos, maps, and illustrations, the text examines Stone Age sculpture, astronomical computations, radiocarbon elating, Egyptian pyramidology, Druidic and other folklore, and many other aspects of the topic. Impartial, painstakingly researched, and lucidly written, the text is an "essential summary of astronomy in the Stone Age" (New Scientist) and a "fascinating, up-to-date sourcebook for the layperson and specialist." (Publishers Weekly). Prologue. Introduction. Notes. References. Bibliography. Index. 142 black-and-white illustrations.… (more)

Language

Original publication date

1976

Physical description

324 p.; 7.9 inches

ISBN

0060905786 / 9780060905781

Barcode

34662000583713

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