MPhil Archaeology - Material Culture and Social Agency in Exeter United Kingdom | University of Exeter

At Exeter, our research on material culture and social agency combines theoretical and methodological approaches with interdisciplinary viewpoints, focusing on how people interact with objects throughout history and in modern times.

Current research explores diverse themes:

Organic and inorganic materials along with their technologies
Sensory experiences in prehistoric communities
Learning and passing down technical skills and craft practices
Movement and trade of artifacts and materials in ancient cultures
Identity, symbolism, and material objects
Cultural heritage and its significance
Display and interpretation of archaeological finds
The role of material culture in social and political systems: rituals and monumental structures
Emergence and evolution of advanced stone tool-making techniques
Tool functions in relation to shifting land use practices
Iron smelting methods and their connections to Iron Age exchanges across Europe and South Asia
Transition from Neanderthals to Modern Humans in Eurasia
Brain evolution in early human ancestors
Numerous projects involve partnerships with experts from fields like classics, ancient history, anthropology, geography, performing arts, material sciences, and digital technologies.