Monumental Structures and the Spirit of Chiefly Actions

Abstract

The aim of this article is to discuss changes observed in monumental architecture. As a point of departure we use our previous results and discussions on ceremonial temple structures (marae/ahu concept) in Polynesia. The visible variations of such structures recorded by archaeological research have generally been explained as temporal expressions. However, our research of marae/ahu structures suggests that this may not be the only or even chief explanation as to why these structures differ in appearance. Instead we suggest that changes and variability in the architecture can also be explained as resulting from the dynamics in social relations. We place importance on competition among “chiefs” on an individual level as well as collective decisions within the society concerning the variability of the importance placed on different gods. Our discussions of “place” are founded in reflections on traditional memory, which indicate that these structures through their constant changes are living places which played an active part in the society in which they existed.