Symbolism as Pre-Writing System in Anatolia and Southeast Europe

This volume, the first of its kind, introduces readers to the study of prehistoric symbolism in southeastern Europe. It brings together a range of experts to present case studies, address new data, and critique traditional topics in the literature. Collectively the authors focus on prehistoric symbolism connected with the pivotal era of human history labelled the Neolithic Revolution, which developed in the ‘fertile crescent’ and spread from Anatolia to southeastern Europe. This process was gradual rather than sudden, developing, spreading and changing sporadically across geographic regions. This volume covers the emergence of symbolism, its first uses as sacral symbolism with and on figurines, tablets, and other artefacts, and its gradual evolution towards pre-writing. It considers and incorporates recent DNA analysis in this context, and addresses themes such as the ‘Mother Goddess’. This book will be essential reading for those interested in European prehistory and in the emergence of writing systems.