Cultural Connections Research Articles

The association between trajectories of structural disadvantage and mental wellbeing for Māori youth

Abstract Background Youth mental health is a major global concern with substantial inequities for Indigenous and other young people from minoritised ethnic groups. In New Zealand, Māori, the Indigenous people, experience poorer mental health than other young people, especially those living in high deprivation. Cultural connectedness is related to positive mental wellbeing, however, its potential to buffer against the harms of structural disadvantage for young Māori mental health has not been investigated. Methods We used data from 1224 Māori young people in the longitudinal Growing Up in New Zealand study. Structural disadvantage measures included material hardship, deprivation, employment, residential mobility. We conducted Latent Class Analysis and Social Sequence Analysis to identify clusters and longitudinal patterns of structural disadvantage. Cultural connectedness and mental wellbeing (depression & anxiety symptoms, quality of life) were measured at age 12. Linear regression analysis was used to determine associations between structural disadvantage, cultural connectedness and mental health. Results We identified 3 trajectories of structural disadvantage for Māori youth: 21% experienced persistent high structural disadvantage, 35% intermittent high structural disadvantage and 44% persistent relatively low structural disadvantage. Few differences in mental health were found between groups. Cultural connectedness was independently associated with positive mental wellbeing, yet there was mixed evidence it might buffer the impacts of structural disadvantage on mental health. Conclusions Our results highlight the importance of policies that uphold Indigenous rights to health and address structural disadvantage as a persistent threat to Indigenous wellbeing. Our findings call for holistic, early-life, family-centred strategies and to reduce barriers to accessing support. We highlight the need for policies that enable young people to flourish in their identity and culture. Key messages • Many Māori young people experience pervasive structural disadvantage starting before they are born, persisting throughout childhood and adolescence which is an omnipresent threat to their wellbeing. • Supporting cultural connectedness for Indigenous youth is important but cannot substitute for policies addressing structural disadvantages that contribute to health inequities.

Agents of social change: cultural connections between Emirati women and camels

ABSTRACT This article considers experiences and interactions of Emirati women with camels, the latter being of the most culturally significant animals in the Emirates, entangled in compelling sociocultural and national narratives. No English-language publication thus far has prioritized female experiences in interacting with camels in the UAE, albeit tending to those animals is not an exclusively male domain. Emirati women’s presence around camels is explored in the context of riding, trekking, racing, inheriting and owning them. Tracking shifts in female experiences around camel-related culture is an essential component of the research. Camels can be perceived as agents of social change–their evolving sociocultural presence is indicative of broader transformations in the UAE. Female narratives centred around those animals describe old and entirely new contexts of their cultural existence. Camels appear, among others, as central figures of heritage revival processes in the UAE and as ‘tools’ of self-discovery. Additionally, phenomenological perspectives engaged in this research, allow for values of cultural nostalgia, emotions, sentiments, embodiment, and sensuous presence in the world to be revealed in the Emirati women’s stories.

A journey through time: Exploring Afro-futurism and Igbo cultural heritage in elementary education

This study explored the significance of including the study of some unrecognized Igbo cultural heritage into the primary education curriculum through the lens of Afrofuturism/African futurism. Drawing from data sourced from interviews conducted among individuals aged 75 years and above, this study illuminates the cultural, nutritional, and educational dimensions of integrating these elements into early education. From an Afrofuturist perspective, education serves as a vehicle for cultural preservation, empowerment, and envisioning alternative futures rooted in African heritage. The inclusion of this yet to be recognized aspect of Igbo cultural heritage in the curriculum not only imparts knowledge of traditional culinary practices and medicinal uses but also fosters a sense of cultural pride and connection among younger generations. By engaging these Igbo cultural heritage with students at a young age, they will develop a deeper understanding of their cultural identity and heritage, which will contribute to a more inclusive and diverse educational experience. More so, the study highlights the potential benefits of integrating indigenous knowledge systems into formal education, promoting sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. Through hands-on learning experiences related to agriculture, nutrition, and cultural studies, students are equipped with practical skills and critical thinking abilities essential for navigating future challenges like how to improve scientifically the use of the seeds and vegetables mentioned for the betterment of humans’ health as well as checkmate the abuse of them through unconscious overdose usage by people which leads to the damages of the organs of the body. In conclusion, integrating the study of indigenous vegetables and seeds into the primary education curriculum offers a transformative opportunity to cultivate cultural identity, foster intergenerational knowledge transfer, and advance Afrofuturist/African futurist visions of inclusive, empowered futures for African societies.

Multifunctionality, social benefits, and engagement: insights for forest restoration success from a study case in Brazil

Social, economic, and ecological aspects must be considered for ecological restoration projects to be successful. Multifunctionality, achieved when restored ecosystems have multiple uses, is the desired goal for these projects. Understanding people's perceptions of forest restoration is essential to advance the debate on stakeholder acceptance and engagement. Based on a 30‐year case study of forest restoration on a university campus in Brazil, we assessed (1) how project objectives relate to contemporary multifunctionality and social attributes; (2) how the current state of the forest meets social goals; and (3) how stakeholders perceive the importance of the forest and the project itself. We used documents, interviews, and questionnaires, applying content analysis and narrative interpretation with the “social benefits wheel” and the “five‐star social system” to assess how the initial project objectives corresponded to contemporary social development goals and its progress toward social goals. The results revealed that socioecological goals were incorporated from the beginning of the project, ensuring a multifunctional approach. Respondents highlighted ecological, social, and cultural functions, with 84% expressing positive feelings toward the forest. Ecosystem services, especially regulatory and cultural benefits, were recognized as the most valuable. Although academic use was significant, nonmaterial values, such as cultural and emotional connections, were more prominent. The study concludes that a well‐planned restoration project involving the local community generates lasting support for ecological restoration. This information strongly supports Brazil's voluntary reforestation targets proposed in the Paris Agreement.

Project Yarn Circle: development and pilot evaluation of a cultural connection suicide prevention program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people

ABSTRACT Background Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people experience markedly higher suicide mortality than non-Indigenous youth in Australia, yet there is little evidence of effective preventative strategies. Many are misaligned to the needs of First Nations young people due to a lack of consideration of protective factors such as community and cultural connection. Objective To date no research has examined whether increasing cultural connectedness may reduce Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth suicidality. The current study outlines the development, implementation, and pilot evaluation of Project Yarn Circle, a school-based suicide prevention initiative utilising cultural education and connection. Method Project Yarn Circle was piloted by an Indigenous owned and managed youth mental health organisation, delivering 5 weekly sessions to 276 young people at 9 schools in Southeast Queensland, Australia, between 2019 and 2023. Sessions connected students to cultural knowledge and practices (stories, painting, dance, Indigenous languages) with Elders and local cultural knowledge facilitators. Results Pre- and post-program evaluation questionnaires completed 6–8 weeks apart found that participants had significantly lower suicidal ideation (GHQ-18-SS), pre 7.16, post 6.61, p = .043 higher positive ideation/reasons for living (PANSI-PI) pre 22.44, post 23.60, p = .009, and higher self-esteem (RSES) pre 16.55, post 23.60, p = .005. Analyses of cultural connectedness items co-designed for this evaluation study and validated using Exploratory Factor Analysis found that students demonstrated greater cultural identity clarity, peer cultural competence, strength from culture, salience of cultural continuity and sense of belonging. Conclusions These findings provide new evidence towards utilising cultural connectedness as an intervention mechanism in Indigenous youth suicide prevention.

Examining naloxone access and interest in secondary naloxone distribution on an American Indian Reservation in the Northern Midwest of the United States

BackgroundIndigenous communities in the United States experience disproportionate rates of overdose morbidity and mortality due to a range of historical traumas and ongoing oppression. Limited health and harm reduction service access on some Tribal lands exacerbate these challenges. To date, little is known about naloxone access on tribal reservation lands. MethodsWe used cross-sectional survey data from community members on the reservation lands of a northern Midwest Tribe in the United States. We explored the prevalence and correlates of recent (past 6-month) naloxone receipt and interest in secondary naloxone distribution among all participants and people who used drugs (PWUD) recently. Correlates included sociodemographics, cultural identity and spirituality, witnessing overdoses, stigma, and drug use characteristics. ResultsAmong 227 Indigenous participants, the average age was 45, 62 % were women, 53 % were single, 29 % were not working, 29 % had experienced recent hunger, and 8 % considered themselves homeless. 91 % said that Indigenous spiritual values were important to them. Sixteen percent had witnessed a recent non-fatal overdose, and 6 % had witnessed a fatal one. Twenty-four percent of the overall sample had recently received naloxone, and 40 % of PWUD had received it. Witnessing both fatal (p<0.001) and nonfatal overdoses (p=0.001) were associated with receiving naloxone. Further, 63 % of participants were willing to distribute naloxone. ConclusionsInnovative strategies to expand naloxone access that are culturally relevant and responsive are needed in Indigenous communities. Cultural connectedness and shared identity are key strengths of Indigenous communities that can potentially be leveraged to implement secondary naloxone distribution programs.

Trade-off between herbal and allopathic treatments: An ethnopharmacological case study in Rema-kalenga wildlife sanctuary, Bangladesh

The Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary (RKWS) is a protected forest in Bangladesh that houses a variety of rare flora and fauna and supports the sustenance of 13 ethnic communities. This forest's indigenous and other inhabitants traditionally have a strong cultural connection to the plants, particularly medicinal plants. Due to modern allopathic medicine's rapid growth and commercial tree species prioritization, many medicinal plants are now on the verge of endangerment. Under such circumstances, it is crucial to explore how the local community perceives the importance of herbal treatments in contrast to allopathy, the underlying reasons for their perceptions, and the specific ailments for which they use the plants. The main objectives are: 1) to evaluate the perceptions of the local community towards allopathy and herbal medicine using Nussbaum's central capabilities approach, 2) to identify medicinal plant diversity, therapeutic usages, and quantitative indices, 3) to determine the factors that influence the use of medicinal plants. Repeated interviews and field surveys were conducted at the RKWS, interviewing 145 people, including the indigenous community (72.42 %) and traditional healers (8.27 %) from the surrounding seven villages. The study identified 51 medicinal plant species belonging to 39 families for their potent medicinal properties in treating various ailments. The predominant parts of the plants used in the treatments were leaves and roots. The uses were classified into 12 categories according to Nussbaum's central capabilities. The findings identified Aloe vera, Phyllanthus emblica, and Azadirachta indica as highly culturally important species. In contrast, Terminalia arjuna, Swertia chirata, and Azadirachta indica were found to have the highest relative importance. The underlying determinants influencing the preferences of individual users towards herbal medicine were income from agroforestry, beliefs, knowledge, and ethnicity, as revealed by the analysis of the ordinal logit model. The respondents viewed their strong inclination toward herbal medicine with many positive attitudes. Herbal medicine users held a negative perception of allopathy except for affiliation and practical reasons being viewed as the positive outcomes. Conversely, allopathic medicine users expressed mixed perceptions towards the treatment, with both positive and negative aspects being identified. Promoting the sustainable use of medicinal plants and their conservation efforts is imperative for the benefit of present and future generations in this region.

Regional Cultural and Artistic Connections and Urban Regeneration Strategies Seen in European Festivals

Regional Cultural and Artistic Connections and Urban Regeneration Strategies Seen in European Festivals

Comparative Analysis of the "H"-shaped Symbol from Göbekli Tepe and the Ritual "Binocular-shaped" Ceramics of the Trypillia Culture in Light of Ancient Farmers' Cosmological Beliefs

This article is dedicated to a comprehensive analysis and interpretation of the sacred "H"-shaped symbolism, which originates from the ancient temple complex of hunter-gatherers and early farmers of the Near East – Göbekli Tepe. The research identifies and analyzes a similar symbol found in the religious complex of ancient farmers in the territory of modern Ukraine, specifically in the Trypillia culture and its ceramic artifacts known as "Trypillia binoculars." A comparative analysis of these symbols is conducted within the context of the cosmological beliefs of early farming societies in Asia and Europe. Special attention is given to interpreting this symbolism as a reflection of complex religious and philosophical concepts related to the cyclicality of nature, the movement of celestial bodies, and the unity of heaven and earth. The research examines the architectural features of Göbekli Tepe, particularly the arrangement of the T-shaped columns, and their potential astronomical purpose. The author hypothesizes a connection between the physical structure of the temple complex, its T-shaped columns, and the formation of abstract "H"-type symbols. Parallels are drawn between the symbolism of Göbekli Tepe and the ritual artifacts of the Trypillia culture, allowing the hypothesis of shared cosmological concepts between various early farming cultures, despite significant geographical and temporal distances. This article offers a new perspective on the development of religious thought in ancient societies, highlighting the depth and complexity of their spiritual ideas. The findings contribute to a better understanding of the cultural connections and exchange of ideas between ancient civilizations of the Near East and Europe.

The Primacy Evaluation and Pattern Evolution Mechanism of the Central City in Nanjing Metropolitan Area

Economic globalisation has accelerated the cross-regional flow of resource elements and broken through the constraints of traditional regional administrative boundaries. Urban agglomerations are core carriers that drive and accelerate regional integration development and can promote the division of urban functions and cooperation. This study considers the Nanjing metropolitan area as a case study to construct a comprehensive first-degree evaluation index system for cities from a factor-flow perspective, focusing on economic, cultural, and transportation connections. We found that (1) Nanjing, which has long been ranked first, shows a downward trending score, dropping from 0.956 in 2017 to 0.937 in 2023; (2) The comprehensive first-degree spatial structure of metropolitan-area cities presents a network hierarchical development feature of “one core, multiple centres, and multiple areas”. With Nanjing as the regional core city, Chuzhou (0.879), Yangzhou (0.915), and Wuhu (0.897) as sub-centre cities, and other cities as sub-regional nodes, the urban system structure gradually forms; (3) The indicators of economic (0.166 **), cultural (0.226 **), and transportation (0.644 ***) element connections were interrelated and mutually reinforced, forming a unified entity with internal connections. This study quantitatively measured the level of integrated development in the Nanjing metropolitan area and provided a reference for formulating regional policies.

Strategies of Media Communication in the Digital Cultural Sphere

The significance of media communication approaches in creating cultural connections and experiences has become increasingly important in the quickly changing world of digital culture. This essay examines effective media communication techniques within the framework of digital culture. The study includes a critical examination of the dynamic interplay between culture and media, emphasizing how digital technologies have revolutionized communication methods. This research study points to the fundamental importance of strategizing/politicized media communication in a highly polycentric, digital cultural field. It combines theory with practice, brings perspectives of working cases and provides example data to demonstrate the importance of communication strategies fit for different cultural audiences going online. The study attests to the urgent imperative of developing flexible and imaginative media communication strategies for generating significant, transcultural meeting in our digitally-connected globe.

Birds as sacred ‘children of god’, beholders of spirit and symbols of twinhood: Human–bird interaction among the Nuer in western Ethiopia

Abstract The deep connection between Indigenous communities and nature plays a pivotal role in biodiversity conservation. Ethiopia, one of Africa's priority countries for bird conservation, harbours 821 bird species and 83 ethnic groups of Indigenous people. However, cultural and spiritual ties between Indigenous peoples and bird species remain largely unexplored. This is particularly true for remote Indigenous communities such as the Nuer. Relying on preexisting bird survey data, we conducted focussed group discussions and semi‐structured interviews with Indigenous Nuer in western Ethiopia to explore human–bird interactions and documented associated traditional ecological knowledge and considered their conservation implications. We found that Nuers have strong ties with birds. In Nuer community, birds are collectively known by three interchangeable terms: ‘gaatkuoth’ to mean sacred children of god, ‘kuoth’ meaning bearers of spirit and ‘diit’ symbols of human twins (since birds nurture multiple offspring, they associate the incidence of twins in human with birds). We identified 71 culturally important bird species that were used in seven different use categories. Among these species, 10 were used as bushmeat, five for traditional medicine, eight as fish indicators, seven as omens (believed to indicate upcoming misfortunes), three as amulets (believed to protect against danger when bird's body parts are used as necklaces and bracelets), three as season indicators and 45 for their scenic beauty. An informant consensus factor for species in all use categories was &gt;90%, except for the scenic value, indicating a high homogeneity of knowledge about species uses. Bird species with multiple uses have significant cultural values among locals, emphasizing the need to understand these values in conservation efforts. Nuer traditional systems regulate the direct use of birds including for bushmeat. Hunting is permitted only by impoverished households during severe food shortages and is prohibited for those with a history of twins in their ancestry. The Nuer people exhibit a profound cultural connection to birds, viewing them as sacred and spiritually valuable beings. This deep‐seated reverence and traditional knowledge highlight the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives into bird conservation strategies to enhance their effectiveness and respect cultural values. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Motivations, Choices, and Constraints of Italian Transgender Travelers: A Study of Tourism Dynamics within the Rainbow

This study explores the motivations, choices, and constraints shaping tourism behavior among transgender individuals living in Italy. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research begins with quantitative data collection and analyses, followed by qualitative insights to uncover the multifaceted reasons that drive transgender individuals to engage in tourism. These motivations range from seeking personal authenticity to cultural exploration and community connection. This study also examines the intricate interplay of choice and constraint in shaping transgender travelers’ tourism experiences, highlighting the challenges they face and the strategies they use to cope with the obstacles they face within the tourism context. Given Italy’s persistent stereotypes and prejudices against gender and sexual minorities, this research provides a critical examination of the intersectionality of gender identity and tourism within a challenging cultural and legal landscape. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of transgender travelers’ tourism experiences and offer valuable implications for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and scholars. By amplifying the voices of Italian transgender travelers, this study aims to foster greater inclusivity and recognition of their diverse needs and experiences within the tourism sector.

The relationship between kinship and foster placement on mental health indicators in children and youth seeking treatment

BackgroundChildren living in both kinship and foster care placements often face considerable adversity. It is possible that these placements can have differential impacts on children’s socioemotional, psychological, and educational outcomes and well-being. ObjectiveThis study examined the similarities and differences between children and youth who reside in kinship placements and those who reside in foster placements. Specifically, similarities and differences in children's mental health care and service requirements, as well as their family's strengths and resources were explored to better understand the needs of children placed in out-of-home care. ParticipantsThe final sample included assessments from 5356 treatment-seeking children, ages three to 18 years old, from across 66 select mental health agencies in Ontario. MethodsChildren were assessed using the interRAI ChYMH, the ChYMH-S, or the ChYMH-DD. These assessments include a variety of embedded evidence-informed scales and algorithms to examine the mental health needs, preferences and strengths of these vulnerable children. ResultsCompared to children in kinship placements, children in foster care were more likely to: (a) exhibit greater externalizing symptoms, (b) display concerns regarding sexual behaviour, (c) encounter trauma, and (d) experience more polyvictimization. No differences were found in terms of spirituality and cultural connectedness. Additionally, kinship caregivers tended to experience greater distress, compared to foster caregivers. ConclusionsFindings from this study highlight important areas where children residing in out-of-home care, particularly those in foster care, require increased access to mental health resources and support. Furthermore, trauma-informed care should always be at the forefront when working with foster and kinship care children and their families.

Understanding the Wellbeing Needs of First Nations Children in Out-of-Home Care in Australia: A Comprehensive Literature Review.

Despite the increasing overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (hereafter respectfully referred to as First Nations) children living in out-of-home care (OOHC) in Australia, little is known about their wellbeing needs. This comprehensive literature review aimed to identify these needs and the features of care required to meet them. MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Informit, PsycINFO, and Embase databases and relevant grey literature were searched from inception to December 2023 for articles presenting qualitative accounts and perspectives relevant to the wellbeing needs of First Nations children in OOHC. These included reports from First Nations children in OOHC; First Nations adults with lived experience of OOHC; carers, caseworkers, and organizational stakeholders; and First Nations community members with relevant lived and/or professional experience. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis method for data analysis. Thirty-five articles (19 peer-reviewed, 16 grey literature) met the inclusion criteria. Our analysis revealed six wellbeing needs of First Nations children in OOHC: Being seen, being heard; a sense of stability; holistic health support; social and cultural connections; culturally safe OOHC providers; and preparedness for transitioning out of care. A range of features of OOHC were also identified as critical for supporting these needs. Our findings suggest that First Nations children in OOHC have unique wellbeing needs in addition to safety, security, and health. Attention to the development and maintenance of social and cultural connections is an important concern that must be addressed by OOHC providers (caseworkers and organizations) and carers and supported by OOHC policy and the associated systems in Australia as part of providing culturally safe and supportive care.

Voices from the Frontline: Insights on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing Advocacy

ABSTRACT Homelessness is a significant issue in Australia, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, who are disproportionally affected compared to non-Indigenous Australians. In this article, we present new findings into the barriers and enablers of housing stability for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Brisbane and Logan areas of Queensland. The aim of the study was to document workers perceptions of barriers and enablers faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Queensland when seeking to access housing. We drew on extensive interview data with front-line staff from an Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) and in doing so identified five key themes: Bureaucratic Barriers and Inaccessibility of Services; Experiences of Discrimination; Impact of Family Dynamics on Housing Stability; Geographic Location; Comprehensive Support Needs. We demonstrated that consistent with the scholarly literature the interplay of systemic, structural, and cultural factors continues to impact housing stability. These findings suggest more work is required if governments are to address housing stability for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals and families. IMPLICATIONS Presenting original data from social workers at an Aboriginal Community-Controlled Health Organisation (ACCHO) contributes to available understandings. In addressing housing challenges, cultural connection and competency are of vital importance. Voices from social workers can provide guidance for policymakers aiming to address homelessness for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

More Than Surface Finds: Nubian Levallois Core Metric Variability and Site Distribution Across Africa and Southwest Asia

Nubian Levallois cores are currently one of the most debated artefact types in Palaeolithic archaeology. Previous work has focused mainly on the definition and technological characteristics of these cores, with discussion of their distribution framed only in qualitative terms. Here, we present the first quantitative spatial analysis of sites with Nubian Levallois cores across the five global regions where they occur. Using modelled Pleistocene conditions for various bioclimatic and topographic variables, we compare the environmental context of 84 sites featuring Nubian cores with 81 contemporaneous sites where they are absent. Metric analysis of cores from 14 new and previously published sites offers further insights into technological and behavioural patterns at an inter-regional scale. Our results show that Nubian cores during MIS 5 are present in areas characterised by aridity, complex topography, and high biomass, whereas for MIS 3, only temperature was a significant predictor. Metric results reveal distinct patterns in both space and time, finding the largest and most standardised cores in Southern Arabia during MIS 5, with the smallest cores in MIS 3 Eastern and Southern Africa. We propose that environmental factors were a more significant driver behind the adoption of the Nubian Levallois method than previously acknowledged. Our results provide essential environmental context for future model-testing of Late Pleistocene demography and cultural connectivity during this critical phase of human evolution.

What Role Does the Heritage Language Play in Chinese Communities in UK?

This article examines the pivotal role of heritage language on Chinese diaspora communities in the UK, emphasizing its role in cultural transmission and identity formation. It emphasizes how community schools serve as essential platforms for heritage language education, enabling immigrant families to preserve their linguistic and cultural connections. The interplay between language learning and the socio-cultural environment is explored, revealing the challenges faced by learners and the significance of family education in this progress. Mastery of heritage language is shown to foster a sense of belonging and cultural pride, contributing to the construction of identities in a multicultural society. The article further discusses how heritage language education not only imparts linguistic skills but also installs cultural values and beliefs, reinforcing national identity among diaspora members. Ultimately, it underscores the transformative impact of heritage language on individual and collective identities, facilitating a deeper understanding of cultural nuances and promoting intercultural awareness within the diverse landscape of contemporary Britain.

Obsidian and Rock Crystal Artefacts as Prestige Finds Based on Raw Material Resources in Çine-Tepecik

Abstract Within its location on the Çine plain, south of the Great Meander River, Çine-Tepecik is an important settlement inhabited continuously from the Chalcolithic to the end of the Bronze Age. Çine-Tepecik reflects an advanced lithic assemblage based on different raw material resources from the earliest period. Obsidian is among the earliest finds in Tepecik showing interregional trade based on the system of exchange, and is a resource that societies prioritized in their social lives and interregional communication since the beginning of the settlement process. Starting from the 4th millennium BCE until the end of the 2nd millennium BCE, obsidian was obtained from three main resources in the Aegean. These are Melos and Antiparos from the Cyclades; Giali from the Dodecanese and Göllü Dağ, Nenezi and Acıgöl from Central Anatolia. These connections, based on trade with the Aegean and Central Anatolia, reveal a skilled craft of obsidian tool production, as well as an obsidian and rock crystal vessel tradition in Tepecik during the Middle Bronze Age. The assemblage, which has a special meaning among prestige products, belongs to a craft activity that requires skill and experience, and is an indicator of socio-cultural richness. During the 2nd millennium BCE, in the wide geographical region covering Anatolia, Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean obsidian and rock crystal vessels were among the special items produced for the royal or elite class. The stone vessel assemblage reflects the political and economic power of these regions, and also provides an understanding of interregional cultural and commercial connections. In the Çine-Tepecik Middle Bronze Age settlement, the obsidian and rock crystal vessel traditions followed a similar chronological development as the geography extending to Anatolia, the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean, and brings new finds to regional archaeology.

The Volcano and the Vampire: The Case for a Volcanic Gothic

This article charts the cultural connections between the vampire and the volcano as gothic symbols. Covering the period between the eighteenth century – when increased volcanic activity on Etna and Vesuvius as well as the excavations at Pompeii sparked a cultural fascination with volcanos – and the publication of Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1897), which originally featured a sensational volcanic ending, I argue that the volcano and the vampire become culturally interconnected and share much of the same symbolic coding and signifying power. Both threaten social orders and even civilizations through the destruction of human bodies, relationships, and property. Both are portals in time – sites where ancient horrors might be spewed forth to menace the present. And both produce uncannily petrified people, from the undead body of the vampire to the human remains from Pompeii. This article makes the case for the volcano as an important and previously overlooked gothic symbol, and for a Volcanic Gothic as a mode through which writers could articulate cultural fears.