The aim of this book is to provide an introduction to what can be learnt from the scientific study of human skeletal remains from archaeological sites.

The Archaeology of Human Bones provides an up to date account of the analysis of human skeletal remains from archaeological sites, introducing students to the anatomy of bones and teeth and the nature of the burial record. Drawing from studies around the world, this book illustrates how the scientific study of human remains can shed light upon important archaeological and historical questions. This new edition reflects the latest developments in scientific techniques and their application to burial archaeology. Current scientific methods are explained, alongside a critical consideration of their strengths and weaknesses. The book has also been thoroughly revised to reflect changes in the ways in which scientific studies of human remains have influenced our understanding of the past, and has been updated to reflect developments in ethical debates that surround the treatment of human remains. There is now a separate chapter devoted to archaeological fieldwork on burial grounds, and the chapters on DNA and ethics have been completely rewritten. This edition of The Archaeology of Human Bones provides not only a more up to date but also a more comprehensive overview of this crucial area of archaeology. Written in a clear style with technical jargon kept to a minimum, it continues to be a key work for archaeology students.

Archaeology is often thought of as being concerned with the material remains of previous groups of people; traditionally only their monuments and their artefacts have been studied. However, another aspect of archaeology is the study of the physical environment in which people lived. Environmental archaeology is concerned with this work and includes the study of soils, food sources and animal bones. It also includes the study of the people themselves, from the skeletal remains. This is known as physical anthropology and, like any other aspect of environmental archaeology, is very specialized. This book describes in simple terms the various procedures used by the specialist. The effects of different burial conditions and rituals on the bones are explained and ways of excavation and treatment are suggested. The human skeleton is described, as are methods of recording and analysis. The effects of accident and disease on the skeleton are included and examples from various groups of skeletons are discussed. The numerous illustrations show the reader what to look for and a comprehensive further reading list is included.

Presents new perspectives on the use and perception of caves at different times in the past, from the Early Mesolithic through to post-medieval time; reveals complex and varied funerary practices and rituals associated with cave burials; highlights the changing roles of caves as places for shelter, occupation, burial and ritual practices during the

An Indispensable Resource on Advanced Methods of Analysis of Human Skeletal and Dental Remains in Archaeological and Forensic Contexts Now in its third edition, Biological Anthropology of the Human Skeleton has become a key reference for bioarchaeologists, human osteologists, and paleopathologists throughout the world. It builds upon basic skills to provide the foundation for advanced scientific analyses of human skeletal remains in cultural, archaeological, and theoretical contexts. This new edition features updated coverage of topics including histomorphometry, dental morphology, stable isotope methods, and ancient DNA, as well as a number of new chapters on paleopathology. It also covers bioarchaeological ethics, taphonomy and the nature of archaeological assemblages, biomechanical analyses of archaeological human skeletons, and more. Fully updated and revised with new material written by leading researchers in the field Includes many case studies to demonstrate application of methods of analysis Offers valuable information on contexts, methods, applications, promises, and pitfalls Covering the latest advanced methods and techniques for analyzing skeletal and dental remains from archaeological discoveries, Biological Anthropology of the Human Skeleton is a trusted text for advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals in human osteology, bioarchaeology, and paleopathology.

A synthetic treatment of the study of human remains from archaeological contexts for current and future generations of bioarchaeologists.