Ethnographic Research into the Social Context of Archaeology and Cultural Heritage

Emilia Groupp
2019
Author(s)
Emilia Groupp
Location
Egypt

Middle Eastern cultural heritage has perhaps never been more present in the public consciousness than in the past decade. While substantial efforts have been directed towards studying and preserving sites themselves, few questions have been focused on the communities who live and work on archaeological and heritage sites. My research addresses this lacuna in both archaeological and anthropological research. Using an ethnographic approach, my research 1) examines the social and political consequences of archaeology in Egypt, 2) Egyptian experiences and perceptions of archaeology and cultural heritage and 3) and the multiple politico-legal regimes which intersect on these sites. Specifically, my research focuses on the Egyptian individuals who actively engage with archaeological practice in their day-to-day lives, namely, those who live and work on archaeological sites in rural areas.        

Thanks to a generous grant from the Abbasi Center I was able to conduct preliminary fieldwork in Egypt over the summer. The purpose of this trip was to carry out exploratory research in order to determine potential sites, meet with contacts, and begin to establish connections with academic institutions and other scholars working in Egypt. During my trip, I visited several sites in Cairo and Luxor, and was able to determine the locations where I will carry out my primary dissertation research. In addition, I was able to establish relationships with several Egyptian families directly involved in archaeological projects who will serve as my hosts during my long-term fieldwork. Further, I was able to establish institutional and academic connections which will be integral to my success in obtaining a research visa.

Apart from focusing on logistical questions, contacts and potential sites, I also was able to explore possible research questions that I would like to further develop. Overall, this trip permitted exploration, reflexivity regarding my research questions, and further development of my research proposal, including my ability to articulate my precise research questions. Finally, through extensive discussion and exchange with the community I will be researching prior to the start of my project, I was able to identify possible constraints, concerns and ethical considerations that will be central to my overall research plan and goals.