Archeology in Tikal

Posted: December 22nd, 2022

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Archeology in Tikal

Introduction

In gaining further understanding of the Mayan civilization, Tikal is a well known archeological site that holds great secrets of the Mayan people. It is a complex located in the Northern Guatemala rainforests. According to historians, this location has over 3,000 structural ruins that signify the remains of Yax Mutal, a Mayan capital city of the ancient empire. Archeologists claim some of the building remains were constructed as early as the 4th century B.C. The town is now part of a national park institutionalized in 1960. Also, it is UNESCO commissioned Heritage Site. With a museum within its premise explaining the history of the Mayan people, it has become a tourist destination. The revenue generated has been used in the maintenance and restoration of Tikal. Archeology plays a vital role in understanding the lost civilization of the Mayan people who have been described as extraordinarily brilliant and advanced. The Tikal has undergone numerous excavation with each event exploring different features of this evolution. This discourse examines the transition of archeological methodologies and techniques applied in obtaining better data and results in a bid to provide pertinent information about Mayan society.

Study of Hieroglyphics Technique

The study of hieroglyphics is considered one of the early primary archeological methods applied in studying the Mayan civilization. Judging from the extensive research on the Mayan civilization, by the 20th century, a substantive number of archeological experts led by Eric Thompson presented the argument Mayans were extraordinarily peaceful people establishing communities keen on understanding celestial events to understand the cosmos and time (Roberts). In 1975, the theory supported by many archaeologists was Tikal was a ceremonial Centre where Mayan priests conducted far-reaching readings on the stars, planets and mysteries within the calendar system. The archaeological techniques supported of this deduction. However, this notion changed radically with technological advancement (Roberts). At the time, the decoding of the Mayan code by Michael Coe work introduced the application of technology in deciphering hieroglyphs in the study of the Mayan civilization.

In the 1960s, the study of hieroglyphs as a novel, sophisticated writing system in the new world allowed for further exploration of excavations by archeologists (Roberts). There was a significant transition of the archeologically derived perception of this community (Roberts). The Mayan writings and artwork collected from Tikal revealed the Mayan people had the history of blood ridden warfare, sacrificial torture and blood offering to numerous deities. Additionally, the Mayans were warriors supported by leadership that propagated war and human sacrifice (Roberts). The cities established by the Mayan people, including Tikal signified feudal system mainly operated on strategized combat aimed at increasing conquests of other surrounding communities. Archeological literature in recent times is founded on this interpretation of artefacts collected at Tikal, including Blood of Kings by Mary Miller. These collected works elaborate on carnage as a focal point on the Mayan ritual lifestyle. Hieroglyphs study was also applied in evaluating the Stella structures significantly visible at the Tikal (Roberts). At the North Acropolis, the tall carved stone showed a clear depiction of bedecked Kings with hieroglyph covered monoliths. Subsequent interpretation aligns with the newly established perception of the Mayan life.

Mayan Ritual Sites – Ceramic Analysis Techniques

Overtime, different methodologies have been applied in analyzing the Mayan way of life at Tikal. Chronologically, first method was ceramic analysis used by archeologists in studying various cultures globally to comprehend approaches employed in the wide-ranging traditional settings. This analysis is based on the function and forms the focus of the vessel’s shape to denote its purpose (Paton n.p). In 2017, an article published by Laboratory Equipment details on cultural complexities of Mayan people identified from their burial rituals. The theory on death was that divine rulers were revered individuals hence treated as living beings even after their demise (Paton n.p). Previously conducted researches at Tikal have led to the discovery of sacrificial offering burials and six royal burial groups dated from the 5^th, 6^th and 7^th centuries A.D.E. Other discovered offerings included crocodile shell pendant, jade ornaments, 22 ceramic vessels and a greenstone mask at a Mayan royal tomb in 1960 dated to the 1^st century A.D (Paton n.p). Applying the ceramic analysis technique on the mask collected from the Mayan Royal Tomb, the first notable feature was the red cinnabar paint used. Secondly, hair decoration at the forehead section was indicative of the Mayan maize God (Paton n.p). This deduction is in line with the status of the buried individual who was a deified Mayan Kings. The third observation was symbolic motifs representing further association with this deity (Paton n.p). The third observation was the placement of 22 additional ceramic vessels in the tomb include spondylus shells, shell pendant, jade ornaments. This excavation adds essential information on the ritual sites and reverence accorded to the elite Mayans.

Iconography Technique

The carving and erection of Stelae monuments by Mayan people at the beginning of the early classic period has been explained by archeologists being politically motivated. Research has revealed that with the entry of each dynastic rule, a monument was erected to glorify the ruler in power and drive their political agenda and propaganda (Braswell 219). In analyzing the stela formats, it was easy to use iconography to determine whether the political hypes were communicative, personalized, or mobile (Braswell 218). Additionally, another function includes capturing the unique features of each rulership and its importance within the Mayan community. According to Laporter and Fialko (1990), political leadership depictions through use of costumers signified sacred and military power, characteristics important in serving a polity purpose.

The technique used by archeologists to study these structures was iconography in interpreting the symbols and images embossed on the stela structures with interest on the political and rulership messages relayed (Braswell 218).  In gaining an understanding of these sculptural monuments numerous in the lowland Maya regions, iconographic programs were designed for explicit assessment in line with the Mayan tradition practised in the Highlands and Pacific Coast. The program characterized by autochthonous elements aimed at understanding the purpose of this architectural framework in meeting the needs of the local rulers at the time (Braswell 219). For instance, eras of individual rulership were identified based on the personalization of the imagery used in Pre-classic Tikal monuments. The archaeological mindset supporting the use of this technique entailed evaluating the consistency in the application of images and symbols to maximize the effectiveness of message dissemination in driving political propaganda within the Mayan political arena. The photos were used to relay a clear message continuously to the onlookers and community at large (Braswell 219). Therefore by iconography, archaeologists were able to generate deductions by dissecting each image without jeopardizing the delicate structure of the excavated remains.

Dental Analysis Technique

Dental analysis technique in archeology in a recent methodology applied in understanding the life processes and diet of ancient people. It has also been applied in studying the differences in varied populations in regards to urban studies. This technique has undergone varied evolutions with the earlier form being the 2D micro wear analyses which was used in the 1950’s. This section explores the current methodology applied in dental analysis concerning the study of the Mayan civilization. Archaeologists have paid close attention to the examination of the structure and population history of Mayan locations in the classical period. A significant observation is regional variations deduced from the differences in material culture collected from different archaeological zones (Scherer 141). To determine the association between the varying characteristics of classic Mayan population and biological differences, techniques applied include dental analysis conducted on human material collected.

 In analyzing these materials, different measures used in quantification include multivariate and univariate metric tests. Likelihood ratios are also applied in reducing the statistically significant differences between the populations and sites such as the Tikal (Scherer148). Judging from the dental analysis conducted on skeleton material collected from Tikal, in comparison with Calakmul, Mayans living within this location had stark biological differences in terms of their intrasite cellular heterogeneity (Scherer 160). Additionally, some similarities were identified when compared to materials from other sites with limited closeness to one another. Therefore, from this study, it has become easier for archeologists to study immigration within Mayan communities. The differences between skeleton materials collected from Calakmul and Tikal sites demonstrates limited to no migration of people between these locations (Scherer 168). However, the likenesses between Tikal and Kaminaljuyu, Copan, Belize Zone and Seibal indicates people from Tikal region travelled to the highlighted locations.

Evaluating Tikal Settlement and Its Intricacies- Settlement Archeology and Mapping Technique

One of the significant issues when analyzing the Mayan settlement area is the detail deficiencies in maps developed from earlier times. Core issues include specific generalization observed in the Tozzler survey conducted in Petten in 1913 as well as the rough coverage display from Sanders mapping in 1962 of the Chontalpa region. Other essential details missing includes useful comparative data applicable in understanding distribution structures and features established by the Mayan in minor and major centres. A map developed by Richardson in 1937 is lacking in elemental value in portraying the southern Maryland and settlements the cities within this location pertinent in quantifying populations. Also, in 1960, the maps developed by Bullard presented very rough imagery of structural diversity. This issue is evident in plans produced in 1969 and 1971. Conclusively, significant problems have been identified in mapping archeological methods applied in the past to study the Mayan settlement population.

The transformation in this technique has focused the inclusivity of other methods in collaboration with mapping necessary for prehistoric evaluations of excavated areas as demonstrated by the exploration of the Tikal settlement by Puleston. Firstly, an aerial survey was used in assessing the diverse locations within the excavation site. This technique has been applied globally in facilitating settlement surveys (Puleston 4). The development of aerial photography is currently at its advanced stage though similar technology was used, including photogrammetric, to analyze prehistoric settlements. Brechas development is another technique applied to develop a ground-level datum. This method is a novel idea recently used by archeologists as a preliminary step before mapping. According to Puleston (4), it was introduced as an elemental component in developing comprehensive maps as opposed to the traditional ones for future archeologists in quest of studying the area (Silverstein et al. 45). Once mapping commenced, the development of Tikal map, reconnaissance was incorporated by engaging human resources (Puleston 5). This technique is used in clearing any erratic coverage that might occur while performing multiple circuits of the area. From this earthwork exploration for mapping purposes, it has significantly contributed to understanding the Mayans ceramics were received dating to Manik and Imix eras (Silverstein et al. 46). Other artefacts included ground and lithic ground stones as well as decorated wares. Puleston mapping technique also sectioned out the Tikal areas identifying located of defensive walls, as well as areas of polity amongst others.

Ceramic Sequence Technique

In gaining a deeper perspective on the cultural changes occurring due to urban changes in Mayan settlements in the Tikal region, a useful technique applied is the ceramic sequence. This technique is a dating technique applied in developing serial orders of occurrence for archeological artefacts and collections in order to determine their relevant dates. This technique was developed in 1951 by G.W Brainerd and W.S Robinson. It was primarily aimed at evaluating Mayan artifacts recovered during the 940 excavation. The development of this method was considered elemental on the basis that some of the pottery artifacts displayed variable styles indicative that their creation was in different archeological times. It is notable to state that ceramics collected in Tikal have been considered as being more extremely varied, thus providing better samples in creating chronological sequences which have been used by archeologists over the years. Culbert provides a groundbreaking analysis on ceramics recovered during the University of Pennsylvania Tikal project conducted between 1956 and 1970 (Culbert 50). Firstly, the ceramic sequence is an older version of the ceramic analysis. It constituted the process of developing historical information for further research. The deposits evaluated in undertaking later research include mixed grab bag, middens, and fill deposits (Culbert 51). On analysis of these deposits were used in demonstrating different between small structure and larger structure groups in the usability of materials in building processes to identify periods which they were constructed. Secondly, special deposits collected from cache and burial artefacts inclusive of ceramics upon sequencing provided chronological information on the change in social status sites and ritual practices conducted. This analysis was categorized into different categories in evaluating ceramics inclusive of variety, vessels and shape interpretations. The importance of this technique in archology has been attributed to the classification groups established for varied ceramics to identify their function and purpose, the era they were used and the particular designation of use in the Mayan culture practised in the Tikal region.

Conclusion

The assessment of different literature in a comparative quest on the change in archeological techniques have revealed informative details about the Mayan civilization. The data collected using varied method and as they change in complexities indicate the ease of error in data collection experienced at an earlier stage. Secondly, it is precise technology elicits improved data processing in gaining accurate information on urbanization, population and culture traditions practised by the Mayan people.

Works Cited

Braswell, Geoffrey E. “Images of Power and Power of Images: Early Classic Iconographic Programs of the Curved Monuments of Tikal.” The Maya and Teotihuacan: Reinterpreting Early Classic Interaction, U of Texas P, 2009.

Coe, William R. “A Summary of Excavation and Research at Tikal, Guatemala: 1956-61.” American Antiquity, vol. 27, no. 4, 1962, pp. 479-507.

Culbert, Patrick P. The Ceramics of Tikal: Vessels from the burials, caches, and problematical deposits. The Pen Press, 1993.

Haviland, William A. “Tikal, Guatemala and Mesoamerican urbanism.” World Archaeology, vol. 2, no. 2, 1970, pp. 186-198.

Paton, Callum. “Archaeologists Have Uncovered a Jade Mask in the Tomb of a Mayan King Revered As a God.” Newsweek, 15 Sept. 2017, www.newsweek.com/tomb-mayan-god-king-containing-jade-burial-mask-hundreds-years-old-discovered-665469. Accessed 21 Nov. 2019.

Puleston, Dennis E. The Settlement Survey of Tikal: Tikal Report 13. U of Pennsylvania P, 2011.

Roberts, David. “Secrets of the Maya: Deciphering Tikal.” Smithsonian, 30 June, 2004, www.smithsonianmag.com/history/secrets-of-the-maya-deciphering-tikal-2289808/. Accessed 14 Nov. 2019.

Scherer, Andrew. “Dental Analysis of Classic Period Population Variability in the Maya Area.” 2004. Texas A & M University, PhD Dissertation.

Silverstein, Jay E., et al. “Rethinking the Great Earthwork of Tikal: A Hydraulic Hypothesis for the Classic Maya Polity.” Ancient Mesoamerica, vol. 20, no. 1, 2009, pp. 45-58.

Webster, David, et al. “The Great Tikal Earthwork Revisited.” Journal of Field Archaeology, vol. 32, no. 1, 2007, pp. 41-64.