[Skill] Archaeology

[Eleret]

Article: [Skill] Archaeology Author(s): Eleret Other development: Herbalism (in progress) Additional Info: Original HD approval here. Peer Review Thread: http://www.mizahar.com/forums/topic55160.html Founder Review Thread: Synopsis: Archaeology is the study of past lifestyles and cultures through the artifacts and other material evidence they have left behind. The general process of archaeology is to survey a site, carefully excavate and catalog its contents, and analyze the evidence to make conclusions about the culture which produced it. Remnants of past societies may include buildings, pottery, gravesites, statues, more fragile materials such as paper or cloth. Additionally, the context in which each artifact is found can provide important information. Archaeology is not a skill which stands alone, but requires a synthesis of knowledge and experience to be practiced successfully. Outline: Prerequisites and Related Skills History and Anthropology Observation and Investigation / Drawing, Copying, and Writing Planning and Organization Wilderness Survival and related skills An Archaeologist's Tools the obvious: shovels, picks, brushes, etc. surveying and measuring tools recording materials the less obvious: paper, wax, ink, etc. for processing/protecting artifacts Identifying a Site signs and indicators of a site's extent, both obvious and subtle identifying culture, age, and purpose of a site Considerations in Different Environments Cyphrus Eyktol Falyndar Kalea Sylira Taldera Submerged Areas Planning the Excavation labor / assistance plotting and laying out a grid "arrangement of work" Document, Document, Document drawings and descriptions, of site and of artifacts copying and casting context, context, context! Condition and Preservation of Artifacts stone wood metal ceramic, glazed and unglazed ivory and bone Skill Progression Novice Competent Expert Master