The Politics of the Past: The Representation of the Ancient Empires by Iran’s Modern States

By (author) Maryam Dezhamkhooy By (author) Leila Papoli-Yazdi Illustrated by Ali Roustaeeyanfard

Book cover: The Politics of the Past: The Representation of the Ancient Empires by Iran’s Modern States

Extent: 162 pages

Publisher: Archaeopress Publishing

Subjects: Ancient Near East

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(December 2018)

ISBN: 9781789690934

6.85 x 9.65 inches

Price: $52.00

In stock

This book examines the highly problematic politics of the past surrounding the archaeology of ancient empires in Iran. Discussing their personal and professional experiences, the authors exemplify the real, ethical dilemmas that archaeologists confront in the Middle East, calling for reflectivity and awareness among the archaeologist


Politics of the past: The Representation of the Ancient Empires by Iran’s Modern States’ examines the highly problematic politics of the past surrounding the archaeology of ancient empires in Iran. Being indigenous, the authors regard the relations between archaeological remains, (negative) heritage, and modern strategies of suppression. The chapters provide a detailed analysis of how the practice of archaeology could be biased and ideologically charged. Discussing their own personal and professional experiences, the authors exemplify the real (ethical) dilemmas that archaeologists confront in the Middle East, calling for reflectivity and awareness among the archaeologists of the region. The text is accompanied by visual deconstruction of ancient rock reliefs to indicate the possibility of alternative histories.

  • By (author) Maryam Dezhamkhooy
  • By (author) Leila Papoli-Yazdi
  • Illustrated by Ali Roustaeeyanfard