Lemke's Theory of Archaeological Assemblages

Lemke's Theory of Archaeological Assemblages explains how artifacts found at a site reflect both the activities that took place there and the broader cultural practices. He suggests that artifacts are part of assemblages—groups of objects linked by function, context, or cultural significance. By analyzing these assemblages, archaeologists can interpret daily life, social organization, and cultural patterns of past peoples. Lemke emphasizes understanding artifacts not only as isolated objects but as interconnected collections that reveal the complexity of ancient societies and their behaviors.