Overarching Patterns of Ancient Transformation in Europe

Abstract

Collating insights from preceding chapters, and adding in further data from CRC 1266 research, this final chapter synthesises elements to initiate an understanding of transformation as a general phenomenon across the region. Notably, the identified 14 European transformation phases exhibit diverse regional and local impacts, reflected in the regional transformations studied in this research project.This chapter aims to bring together the ideas presented thus far in this volume in order to spark further development in integrative archaeology by highlighting the nuanced nature of transformations, transcending the conventional categorisation of European prehistory into Stone, Bronze, and Iron Ages. This traditional division based primarily on technological advancements overlooks the multifaceted changes occurring concurrently across various societal forms in diverse environments. Instead, this study emphasises the necessity of considering multiple facets of human-environmental interactions for a comprehensive understanding of transformations. We conclude that comprehensive evaluation of European data to decipher transformation process across social, temporal and spatial scales requires holistic consideration, in order to be able to further develop an anatomy of transformation, which can contribute significantly to refining interpretations and models in archaeological understanding.