A European Neolithic burial. A large stone Venus. Nothing unusual about it_except that it was found on an island in the Pacific Northwest. Archaeologist Hannah Green and her shovelbum nephew find themselves in a tangled web of competing interests--avaricious land owners, hungry media, and a cult of goddess worshippers--while investigating one of the finds of the century. In untangling the mystery of the Washington Venus, Hannah and Sean have to confront questions of archaeological evidence, of ethics, of conflicting interpretation of data, and of the very nature of archaeological truths. Helping them are a cadre of disdainful graduate students who propose various theories--processualist, marxist, feminist, postmodernist--to explain the bizarre events. Teach your students archaeological theory in a fashion they'll enjoy, while they solve the mystery in Adrian Praetzellis's delightful textbook-as-novel.
Death by Theory: A Tale of Mystery and Archaeological Theory
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Book Description
Editorial Reviews
Review
If students feel that theory will be the death of them, this book is the cure. It is an amusing way to tackle theory, with many points for productive discussion. (Nelson, Sarah Milledge )
By framing the narrative around the themes of goddess-worship and archaeological hoaxes, Praetzellis touches on contemporary, as well as perennial concerns and creates an irresistible impetus for student discussion. His facility with the English language and wry sense of humor come through on every page. I'm looking forward to using this book in my classes. (Mary C. Beaudry )
A master historical archaeologist packages modern archaeological concepts in the deft dialogue of a murder mystery. Great as supplementary reading for an introductory course -- or just plain fun! First there was the Processual; then came the Post Processual; now we have the Praetzellical! (Thomas Layton )
There is a real need for a work that can make archaeological theory not only entertaining but engaging for undergraduates, and if it needs a novel format as Praetzellis has used, so much the better for those of us who have to teach theory-phobic students. (Kus, Susan )
The cleverest aspect of this clever little book is Hannah Green's on-going discourse (mostly with her nephew) about the history and theory of archaeology. Without really noticing, the reader is treated to an erudite and often very humorous explanation ofsuch topics as cultural resource management (CRM), the New or Processual Archaeology of Lewis Binford and his followers, Marxist-influenced archaeology, and other postprocessual archaeologies. I was completely captivated by the book when Praetzellis (or Hannah Green) presented a cogent and understandable description of postmodernism in archaeology. I believe that any author who can even make me think I could ever understand postmodernism is a genius of the writing profession! This is simply a book thatis fun to read and from which the reader can actually learn a lot about the academic discipline of archaeology. It could certainly be included in any college level introductory archaeology class as a welcomed humorous and often even ribald supplement tothe usually dry as dust (you'll pardon the expression) standard textbook. (Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center (Website) )
When Archaeologist Hannah Green and her nephew Sean begin uncovering burial grounds on a Pacific Northwest island, they dig up a lot more than dirt. What surfaces is an archaeological puzzle that keeps the detective duo -- and the reader/sleuth -- turning parchment. Discoveries are plentiful, from goddess worshippers to archaeological theories, as Adrian Praetzellis takes us back in time to solve the mystery of Death By Theory. As a mystery writer, I'm delighted to say it reads like a mystery, not a textbook. I learned a lot, I must admit, but Praetzellis makes it fun to learn. In my next life, I want to be an archaeologist! (Penny Warner )
The cleverest aspect of this clever little book is Hannah Green's on-going discourse (mostly with her nephew) about the history and theory of archaeology. Without really noticing, the reader is treated to an erudite and often very humorous explanation of such topics as cultural resource management (CRM), the New or Processual Archaeology of Lewis Binford and his followers, Marxist-influenced archaeology, and other postprocessual archaeologies. I was completely captivated by the book when Praetzellis (or Hannah Green) presented a cogent and understandable description of postmodernism in archaeology. I believe that any author who can even make me think I could ever understand postmodernism is a genius of the writing profession! This is simply a book that is fun to read and from which the reader can actually learn a lot about the academic discipline of archaeology. It could certainly be included in any college level introductory archaeology class as a welcomed humorous and often even ribald supplement to the usually dry as dust (you'll pardon the expression) standard textbook. (Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center (Website) )
Death by Theory is a bit of a mystery. Is it a witty mystery, appealing to aficionados with references to Conan Doyle and all manners of genre stereotypes? Is it a teaching collection of capsule definitions of archaeological theories and stances? Is it an inside joke book for archaeologists? Actually it is all of these. (Caroline Stewart Steele Antiquity, 1 Sept. 2002 )
Thank God for Adrian Praetzellis who has given beginning archaeological students an entertaining way to pick up the basics [of archaeological theory]... It is a hoot, and sure to make a really difficult course somewhat easier to chart. (K. Kris Hirst Archaeology.About.Com )
I would definitely use this book in an undergraduate course... I certainly plan to use it in a future upper-division course on history and theory of archaeology! Another added bonus to the book are the wonderful drawings by the author; Praetzellis has captured many core themes and issues with humor and clarity, and these illustrations -- duly credited -- are already in use for my 200 students this semester in introduction to archaeology! (Conkey, Margaret W. American Antiquity )
Archaeologists who have met Praetzellis will recognize his wry humor and puns throughout a teaching text in which the novel serves as a background for generalized presentations of theory. The theoretical discussions do not detract from the flow of the plot nor do they insult the reader's intelligence. They include a solid dose of real information and can lead to many valuable discussions... This text can help develop student interest in archaeological theory and its history if instructors will give it a chance. While I felt that it would be best used for an undergraduate course, a second and third reading indicated that this easily read booklet would be suitable for graduate students, especially those who come to archaeology from other undergraduate majors with little or no background in anthropology. (Lawrence E. Babits Historical Archaeology )
[Praetzellis] has managed to create a work that not only intrigues the reader but also provides a foundation for archaeological theory. . . . I would recommend it for use in an undergraduate seminar in archaeological theory, to help form the foundation for more in-depth study at the graduate level. . . . is an excellent read, and is recommended to anyone looking for a lighthearted, yet educational, book about archaeological theory. (Lithic Technology )
With its ease of explanation and helpful illustrations, Death by Theory certainly has a place on any student's shelf as the sort of book that one dips into for a quick reference. More than that, its strength and charm lies in its presentation backed up by a solid treatment of archaeological theory and, in that way, it is the ideal introductory text. (Mary-Catherine E. Garden European Journal Of Archaeology, 5.2 )
What a refreshing book. I heartily recommend it for use in the classroom and in fact, for a general fun read outside the classroom. It is an amusing, clever, informative, and well-conceived book that defines archaeological theories in ways that are comprehensive to students. Kudos to Adrian Praetzellis for taking on this challenge and delivering such an excellent book that is sure to please. (Diana DePaolo Loren Journal Of Northeast Historical Archaeology, Vol 29, 2000 )
Adrian Praetzellis has fun with the popularity of archaeological mysteries in his hilariously illustrated book, Death by Theory. His refreshing personalization of theoretical positions in the form of characters in the mystery aptly represents the differences new theoretical orientations make, while staying even-handed about the excesses of each of the contemporary schools of archaeological theory. (Rosemary Joyce Berkeley Book List, 2003 )
By framing the narrative around the themes of goddess-worship and archaeological hoaxes, Praetzellis touches on contemporary, as well as perennial concerns and creates an irresistible impetus for student discussion. His facility with the English language and wry sense of humor come through on every page. I'm looking forward to using this book in my classes. (Mary C. Beaudry )
A master historical archaeologist packages modern archaeological concepts in the deft dialogue of a murder mystery. Great as supplementary reading for an introductory course -- or just plain fun! First there was the Processual; then came the Post Processual; now we have the Praetzellical! (Thomas Layton )
There is a real need for a work that can make archaeological theory not only entertaining but engaging for undergraduates, and if it needs a novel format as Praetzellis has used, so much the better for those of us who have to teach theory-phobic students. (Kus, Susan )
The cleverest aspect of this clever little book is Hannah Green's on-going discourse (mostly with her nephew) about the history and theory of archaeology. Without really noticing, the reader is treated to an erudite and often very humorous explanation ofsuch topics as cultural resource management (CRM), the New or Processual Archaeology of Lewis Binford and his followers, Marxist-influenced archaeology, and other postprocessual archaeologies. I was completely captivated by the book when Praetzellis (or Hannah Green) presented a cogent and understandable description of postmodernism in archaeology. I believe that any author who can even make me think I could ever understand postmodernism is a genius of the writing profession! This is simply a book thatis fun to read and from which the reader can actually learn a lot about the academic discipline of archaeology. It could certainly be included in any college level introductory archaeology class as a welcomed humorous and often even ribald supplement tothe usually dry as dust (you'll pardon the expression) standard textbook. (Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center (Website) )
When Archaeologist Hannah Green and her nephew Sean begin uncovering burial grounds on a Pacific Northwest island, they dig up a lot more than dirt. What surfaces is an archaeological puzzle that keeps the detective duo -- and the reader/sleuth -- turning parchment. Discoveries are plentiful, from goddess worshippers to archaeological theories, as Adrian Praetzellis takes us back in time to solve the mystery of Death By Theory. As a mystery writer, I'm delighted to say it reads like a mystery, not a textbook. I learned a lot, I must admit, but Praetzellis makes it fun to learn. In my next life, I want to be an archaeologist! (Penny Warner )
The cleverest aspect of this clever little book is Hannah Green's on-going discourse (mostly with her nephew) about the history and theory of archaeology. Without really noticing, the reader is treated to an erudite and often very humorous explanation of such topics as cultural resource management (CRM), the New or Processual Archaeology of Lewis Binford and his followers, Marxist-influenced archaeology, and other postprocessual archaeologies. I was completely captivated by the book when Praetzellis (or Hannah Green) presented a cogent and understandable description of postmodernism in archaeology. I believe that any author who can even make me think I could ever understand postmodernism is a genius of the writing profession! This is simply a book that is fun to read and from which the reader can actually learn a lot about the academic discipline of archaeology. It could certainly be included in any college level introductory archaeology class as a welcomed humorous and often even ribald supplement to the usually dry as dust (you'll pardon the expression) standard textbook. (Mississippi Valley Archaeology Center (Website) )
Death by Theory is a bit of a mystery. Is it a witty mystery, appealing to aficionados with references to Conan Doyle and all manners of genre stereotypes? Is it a teaching collection of capsule definitions of archaeological theories and stances? Is it an inside joke book for archaeologists? Actually it is all of these. (Caroline Stewart Steele Antiquity, 1 Sept. 2002 )
Thank God for Adrian Praetzellis who has given beginning archaeological students an entertaining way to pick up the basics [of archaeological theory]... It is a hoot, and sure to make a really difficult course somewhat easier to chart. (K. Kris Hirst Archaeology.About.Com )
I would definitely use this book in an undergraduate course... I certainly plan to use it in a future upper-division course on history and theory of archaeology! Another added bonus to the book are the wonderful drawings by the author; Praetzellis has captured many core themes and issues with humor and clarity, and these illustrations -- duly credited -- are already in use for my 200 students this semester in introduction to archaeology! (Conkey, Margaret W. American Antiquity )
Archaeologists who have met Praetzellis will recognize his wry humor and puns throughout a teaching text in which the novel serves as a background for generalized presentations of theory. The theoretical discussions do not detract from the flow of the plot nor do they insult the reader's intelligence. They include a solid dose of real information and can lead to many valuable discussions... This text can help develop student interest in archaeological theory and its history if instructors will give it a chance. While I felt that it would be best used for an undergraduate course, a second and third reading indicated that this easily read booklet would be suitable for graduate students, especially those who come to archaeology from other undergraduate majors with little or no background in anthropology. (Lawrence E. Babits Historical Archaeology )
[Praetzellis] has managed to create a work that not only intrigues the reader but also provides a foundation for archaeological theory. . . . I would recommend it for use in an undergraduate seminar in archaeological theory, to help form the foundation for more in-depth study at the graduate level. . . .
With its ease of explanation and helpful illustrations, Death by Theory certainly has a place on any student's shelf as the sort of book that one dips into for a quick reference. More than that, its strength and charm lies in its presentation backed up by a solid treatment of archaeological theory and, in that way, it is the ideal introductory text. (Mary-Catherine E. Garden European Journal Of Archaeology, 5.2 )
What a refreshing book. I heartily recommend it for use in the classroom and in fact, for a general fun read outside the classroom. It is an amusing, clever, informative, and well-conceived book that defines archaeological theories in ways that are comprehensive to students. Kudos to Adrian Praetzellis for taking on this challenge and delivering such an excellent book that is sure to please. (Diana DePaolo Loren Journal Of Northeast Historical Archaeology, Vol 29, 2000 )
Adrian Praetzellis has fun with the popularity of archaeological mysteries in his hilariously illustrated book, Death by Theory. His refreshing personalization of theoretical positions in the form of characters in the mystery aptly represents the differences new theoretical orientations make, while staying even-handed about the excesses of each of the contemporary schools of archaeological theory. (Rosemary Joyce Berkeley Book List, 2003 )
About the Author
Adrian Praetzellis is an archaeologist at Sonoma State University.
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
13 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great!,
By Dr Cornelius Holtorf (Cambridge, Cambs United Kingdom) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Death by Theory: A Tale of Mystery and Archaeological Theory (Paperback)
This book is both a good narrative and an introduction to archaeological theory. It is *very* well written, *highly* competent and insightful (but without any jargon), *beautifully* illustrated, and *extremely* funny -- for archaeologists anyway. What more do you want? I wish there were more books like this that challenged the conventions of archaeological writing and argument in such sophisticated ways. Congratulations to Altamira Press for taking the risk that is necessarily involved in printing such a book *and* selling it at such a good price. These are the kind of publishers that actually move the discipline of Archaeology forward...
11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great for an Intro Archaeology Class,
By sgkr (New Hampton, NH USA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Death by Theory: A Tale of Mystery and Archaeological Theory (Paperback)
I bought this book for two reasons; I was curious to see if it would be worth using with an Intro to Archaeology class, and I have a terrible head for theory myself, so am always curious to see how other people approach it."Death by Theory" is not great literature, and not really that great of a mystery, but that's ok because it does one important thing very very well. It presents archaeological and anthropological theory in a totally non-threatening way, and in a way that a beginning (or forgetful) student is likely to remember. It's not going to tell the serious archaeology student everything he or she needs to know, but it's a great jumping off point for further discussion, as well as a good, basic reference that students will likely return to. The illustrations are amusing and insightful, and there's enough humor and plot to keep the reader turning the pages. If I ever have the opportunity, I would definitely use this book with an intro class, and I am quite happy to add this book to my own reference library.
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent way of teaching archaeological theory!,
This review is from: Death by Theory: A Tale of Mystery and Archaeological Theory (Paperback)
Death by Theory is a novel, but one with a purpose. The author teaches the reader all the concepts of archaeological theory while solving an archaeological mystery. I highly recommend this book for all beginning archaeology students, and anyone interested in the subject. I also got a kick out of the illustrations.
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