European J Archaeol 2 (3)

A paper arguing that the conception of ritual employed in both archaeology and anthropology is a product of post-Enlightenment rationalism. It is thought that because it does not meet modern western criteria for practical action, ritual is frequently described as non-functional and irrational; furthermore, this designation is employed as the primary way of identifying ritual archaeologically. This evaluation of ritual action is questioned. It is argued that many other societies do not distinguish ritual from secular action. Further, what anthropologists identify as ritual is generally considered practical and effective action by its practitioners. A discussion of some finds from MBA settlements in southern England provides a working example of how this issue might be addressed.

Accurate mapping of the 78ha Roman town of Viroconium (Wroxeter, Shropshire) in preparation for detailed research and site management proved a task that requires the use of modern information techniques. This article describes the creation of high spatial accuracy maps by the use of GPS-located gradiometer survey data in order to georeference available aerial photographs, and the use of digital processing of aerial photographs to obtain additional information not visible to the naked eye. A GIS is being used to build a vectorized interpreted map of the town with a spatial error typically less than one metre. The results compare favourably with previous mapping efforts based on traditional methods.