Mississippian Women is a compelling exploration of the roles and experiences of women in the Mississippian societies of North America. This anthology challenges male-centered perspectives of archaeology by focusing on the significant, yet often overlooked, contributions of women in Mississippian culture. The editors bring together a diverse group of scholars who use a variety of methodological approaches including bioarchaeology, ethnohistory, and material culture studies to uncover the complex lives of Mississippian women.
The book is divided into thematic sections to explore different aspects of Mississippian women’s lives, from their roles in the household and community to their participation in ceremonial and political spheres. Each chapter draws on both archaeological evidence and historical records to share fresh, nuanced perspectives on familiar archaeological sites such as Cahokia and Moundville, and present new interpretations of artifacts and burial practices that emphasize the centrality of women in these societies. It explores themes of identity, grief, food and craft production, prestige and community standing, kinship, and fertility, among other aspects of the domestic, economic, and political lives of Mississippian women.
One of the strengths of Mississippian Women is the integration of insights from various fields, which not only enhances our understanding of Mississippian women, but highlights gender as a critical category of analysis in archaeology.
