Assessing the form and function of the Sacbeob and associated structures at Chan Chich, Belize

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2016-08-09

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Abstract

This thesis research considered the role of ritual function in urban planning at the ancient Maya site of Chan Chich, specifically focusing on the site’s causeways and associated structures. It stems from the premise that Maya cities were built with a dual purpose in mind: to facilitate everyday activities and to serve as the setting for public spectacles, which involved a wide range of ritual activities including processions. These public spectacles required space for both the performance and for the audience. For the ancient Maya theatrical performance worked to solidify the power of the elite and create a cohesive community identity for the general public My research worked within the theoretical framework of performance theory to understand the importance of performance, space, and ritual to the ancient Maya. Understanding the importance of performance from an archaeological perspective is difficult because these events cannot be directly observed. Thus theatrical space, images, and the material culture used in a performance provide a means of analysis for theatrical events in Maya society

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Sacbe, Sacbeob, Causeway

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