Antiquity (journal)
Overview
Antiquity is a peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to the field of archaeology. Established in 1927, it has become a leading publication for the dissemination of archaeological research and scholarship. The journal covers a broad range of topics within archaeology, including prehistoric and historic archaeology, archaeological theory and methodology, and interdisciplinary studies that intersect with archaeology.
Antiquity is published quarterly by Cambridge University Press and is known for its rigorous peer-review process, ensuring the publication of high-quality and impactful research. The journal's articles are authored by leading scholars and cover a wide geographical and chronological scope, making it an essential resource for archaeologists and researchers in related fields.
History
Antiquity was founded by O. G. S. Crawford, a prominent British archaeologist, who served as its first editor. Crawford's vision was to create a journal that would serve as a platform for the exchange of ideas and discoveries in archaeology. Since its inception, Antiquity has played a pivotal role in shaping the field of archaeology, providing a forum for the publication of groundbreaking research and fostering international collaboration among archaeologists.
Over the decades, Antiquity has evolved to reflect changes in the field of archaeology, incorporating new methodologies and theoretical approaches. The journal has expanded its scope to include interdisciplinary research that bridges archaeology with other fields such as anthropology, geography, and history.
Editorial Structure
The editorial structure of Antiquity is designed to maintain the journal's high standards of scholarship and integrity. The editorial board is composed of leading archaeologists from around the world, representing a diverse range of expertise and perspectives. The board is responsible for overseeing the peer-review process, selecting articles for publication, and ensuring the journal's adherence to ethical standards.
The editor-in-chief, supported by a team of associate editors, plays a crucial role in shaping the journal's content and direction. The editorial team works closely with authors to refine their submissions and ensure that they meet the journal's rigorous standards.
Content and Themes
Antiquity publishes a wide array of content, including original research articles, review articles, and book reviews. The journal covers a broad range of themes within archaeology, including:
- **Prehistoric Archaeology**: Studies of ancient human societies before the advent of written records, including research on Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Bronze Age cultures.
- **Historic Archaeology**: Research on societies with written records, including studies of ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Rome.
- **Archaeological Theory and Methodology**: Articles exploring theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches in archaeology, including discussions on stratigraphy, dating methods, and archaeological ethics.
- **Interdisciplinary Studies**: Research that integrates archaeology with other disciplines, such as archaeobotany, archaeozoology, and geoarchaeology.
- **Regional Studies**: Articles focusing on specific geographical regions, providing insights into the unique archaeological record and cultural heritage of areas such as Mesoamerica, East Asia, and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Impact and Influence
Antiquity has had a significant impact on the field of archaeology, influencing both academic research and public understanding of the past. The journal is widely cited in scholarly literature and is considered a key resource for archaeologists, historians, and researchers in related fields.
The publication of high-profile articles in Antiquity has often sparked debates and discussions within the archaeological community, contributing to the advancement of knowledge and the development of new research directions. The journal's commitment to publishing interdisciplinary research has also facilitated collaboration between archaeologists and scholars from other fields, enriching the study of the past.
Accessibility and Distribution
Antiquity is accessible to a global audience through both print and digital formats. The journal is available through institutional subscriptions, individual subscriptions, and online databases such as JSTOR and Cambridge Core. This wide distribution ensures that the journal's content reaches a diverse readership, including academics, students, and professionals in the field of archaeology.
In recent years, Antiquity has embraced open access publishing, allowing for greater accessibility to its content. Selected articles are made freely available to the public, promoting the dissemination of archaeological knowledge and fostering engagement with a wider audience.