Myths of the Archaic State: Evolution of the Earliest Cities, States, and Civilizations (Volume 0)

Myths of the Archaic State: Evolution of the Earliest Cities, States, and Civilizations (Volume 0) by Yoffee, Norman. paperback edition. ISBN: 9780521521567.

Classical archaeology promotes the view that a states evolution reflects general, universal forces. Norman Yoffee challenges the model in this book by presenting more complex and multi-linear models for the evolution of civilizations. Yoffee questions the definition of the prehistoric state, particularly that which heralds "the chiefdom" as the forerunner of the ancient state and explores case studies on the role of women in ancient societies.