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Anthropology
Archaeology

Regenerating Substances: Quartz as an animistic agent

Profile image of Ffion ReynoldsFfion Reynolds

2009, Time & Mind: Journal of archaeology, consciousness and culture

https://doi.org/10.2752/175169709X423664
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Abstract

To the question "what is animism?" a Westerner may answer with a dichotomy to help explain the phenomenon. By looking, however, at some non-Western examples, the polarized relationship between animate: inanimate may be seen not to have existed, and this may apply to the past. Some objects may have capacities of action or spirit, breaking down these Western divisions. In this paper, I will consider the case of quartz rocks as animistic agents. Quartz is frequently associated with animists. For example, the Amazonian Tukano Indians consider quartz to be "living" or a "live rock," with special or healing properties. Can these understandings be reflected in the archaeological record? In this paper I will draw upon recent discussions on the possible roles of quartz at Newgrange Site 1, Ireland, within the Neolithic around 3000 cal. bc. Although Newgrange has traditionally been depicted as a place for the dead, I will consider whether Neolithic people conceived of quartz as having a "life-force"—creating instead a place for active substances.

Figures (8)
Fig 3 Images showing two instances of
Fig 3 Images showing two instances of
Fig 5 A close-up of the reconstructed quartz and granite fagade at Newgrange (photo: Ken
Fig 5 A close-up of the reconstructed quartz and granite fagade at Newgrange (photo: Ken
Fig 4 Rock art relating to a quartz seam at Corn Springs vision quest site California (photo: Paul
Fig 4 Rock art relating to a quartz seam at Corn Springs vision quest site California (photo: Paul

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