What is archaeology?

Archaeology is fundamentally concerned with the material remains of past eras and the conclusions that can be drawn from them. The work of an archaeologist includes fieldwork, museum work (both in storage and exhibitions), as well as library research. The core areas of archaeology are survey (locating the site), excavation (digging and documentation), analysis (processing and publishing the excavated objects and features), and interpretation (drawing broader conclusions). Archaeology is a scientific discipline made up of numerous distinct fields, which are often separated by significantly different methodologies. Each area of specialization has accumulated such an extensive body of knowledge that an individual archaeologist can typically become well-versed in only a few periods. In line with Hungarian academic traditions, most graduates of archaeology programs focus intensively on one or more periods of the archaeology of the Carpathian Basin, although during fieldwork they naturally excavate and document remains from various other periods as well. From the survey stage through to analysis, the work of archaeologists is supported by numerous scientific experts specialized in related natural science fields.

What skills are needed for archaeology?

To pursue archaeological work, above all else, one needs dedication, as this is a vocation that demands a person’s full commitment. One’s own dedication can best be measured by how deeply they are captivated by popular science books on archaeology, and by how much they are able—even as secondary school students—to develop a basic archaeological literacy out of personal interest. For this reason, we provide here a list of books intended for a wider audience, yet professionally reliable. By reading from this selection, one can gain a sense of which area might interest them most—or whether archaeology truly interests them at all. A good visual memory is also very important, as professional knowledge cannot be acquired without it. This means being able to mentally recall the shapes and decorations of individual objects, and to do the same with a larger quantity of archaeological finds. In addition, strong language skills are necessary, since the vast majority of the academic literature is only available in foreign languages. The organization and execution of excavations and other archaeological fieldwork, as well as the excavation process itself, require good practical skills from an archaeologist.

Recommended literature in Hungarian

General

Paleoarchaeology

Ancient archaeology

Archaeology of Roman provinces

Medieval archaeology