Geometry and Culture

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How different societies have done their "earth measuring" to solve problems, reflect values, and (consciously or not) assert their intellectual and cultural imprint.

Water

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Aspects of water hold deep meaning in many cultures, suggesting possible intentions behind the water engineering of Adena and Hopewell sites.

Fire

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The role of fire in the builders' treatments of deposited items, burials, and the burning down of buildings before mounds or earthworks were raised.

Burning Things

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Comparative religion scholar Dr. David Cave discusses the meaning of community ritual burning of meaningful objects across cultures.

Music

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Ethnomusicologist Robert Templeman emphasizes that the builders' music (panpipes, rattles, rasps, drums, and voices) differed in sound and purpose from we know today.

Music and Authenticity

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Ethnomusicologist Robert Templeman points out that most of the music in our program is "Westernized," and inauthentic.

Elaboration and Ritual

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Dr. David Cave explores the reasons for the great size and elaboration in ritual grounds and preparations, across cultures.