2019/07/30 by Sabrina N. Autenrieth, Dieuwertje van Boekel · 2 voices
Arts and Humanities · Earth and Planetary Sciences · #Archaeological Research and Protection #Historical and Religious Studies of Rome #Medieval Architecture and Archaeology
paper · pdf · doi:10.14361/9783839445389-010
openalex publication_date 2019/07/30 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/01
Destruction is an element of human behaviour that is universally present throughout our history. But what are the driving forces behind these violent acts? Can an underlying motivation be recognised in the archaeological record? This article focuses on the destruction and mutilation of monumental architecture and figurative works, and puts them into global context. From several case studies, both from past and present societies, it has become evident that the difference in perception of a certain monument is key to its eradication. Architectural destruction and iconoclastic events are usually preceded by years of conflict. Destroying a monument can be a transitional change or, a symbolic act meant to demonstrate power and/or disagreement. When researching destructive behaviour in past societies it is therefore important to understand the implications for both the destructors and the people affected by it.