Author: Reynolds, Ffion

Source: Time and Mind, Volume 2, Number 2, July 2009 , pp. 153-166(14)

Publisher: Berg Publishers

Abstract:

To the question "what is animism?" a Westerner may answer with a dichotomy to help explain the phenomenon. By looking, however, at some non-Western examples, the polarized relationship between animate: inanimate may be seen not to have existed, and this may apply to the past. Some objects may have capacities of action or spirit, breaking down these Western divisions. In this paper, I will consider the case of quartz rocks as animistic agents. Quartz is frequently associated with animists. For example, the Amazonian Tukano Indians consider quartz to be "living" or a "live rock," with special or healing properties. Can these understandings be reflected in the archaeological record? In this paper I will draw upon recent discussions on the possible roles of quartz at Newgrange Site 1, Ireland, within the Neolithic around 3000 cal. bc. Although Newgrange has traditionally been depicted as a place for the dead, I will consider whether Neolithic people conceived of quartz as having a "life-force"—creating instead a place for active substances.

Keywords: ANIMISM; QUARTZ; WORLDVIEWS; NEWGRANGE; NEOLITHIC

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2752/175169709X423664

Publication date: 2009-07-01

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