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A Dictionary of Archaeology . By Warwick Bray and David Trump. 8½ × 6. Pp. 269 + 104 pls. + 211 figs. + maps. London: The Penguin Press, 1970. £2·25.

This is a workmanlike attempt to provide, in a compact form, basic information about many aspects of archaeology. One cannot say archaeology as a whole, since the authors expressly disclaim any intention to cover classical, medieval, or industrial archaeology. However, with a charming inconsistency, they then go on to hedge their bets by including entries on Roman and Dark Age Britain on the grounds that these periods may be the first point of contact with archaeology for many of their readers. The argument is reasonable in itself but the policy invites criticism; for is it logical to include Lord Elgin but not the Parthenon? Or, conversely, Richborough but not Claudius ? The reviewer's preferred test for this sort of work is to look for a definition of 'Flavian', a term puzzling to those students of Roman Britain without a classical background; it does not appear. The book tells us, in fact, as much about the authors as the subject and shows their mastery of European prehistory and American archaeology; if classical archaeology is skirted, this presumably reflects the slight nervousness which Cambridge prehistorians feel about the subject. Within its chosen limits, however, this is a first-class work of reference. The entries are up to date, succinctly and clearly written, and objective in tone, apart from minor lapses. One particularly good feature is the inclusion of general archaeological concepts, as well as people, places, and things. Again, apparently obvious words such as 'cannibalism' or 'longevity', are discussed in archaeological terms which make their inclusion positively helpful. The Americas are perhaps more strongly represented among the entries than English readers might expect, or need, but this may be a reaction of European insularity (if the Irishism can be permitted). Accuracy is difficult to assess over so broad a field. The authors have taken advice from a distinguished list of helpers and there is a general feel of reliability. The book is well produced: compact, strongly bound, and clearly printed, it is obviously intended for intensive use. The entries are supplemented by numerous text figures and plates; the latter are not printed on art-paper and are consequently rather dark in tone, while there is an occasional disparity of treatment (for instance, the Gundestrup cauldron is given a wasteful two-page spread but Abu Simbel is reduced to a minute vignette). However, these minor defects are outweighed by the useful regional index and very helpful maps at the end. And, finally, in a world of inflated prices, the publishers have succeeded in presenting the book at a relatively modest cost and for this they must be warmly thanked. F. H. THOMPSON