AIA Lecture Abstract - Recent Research on the Maya Collapse

Abstract: Recent Research on the Maya Collapse

The idea of a sudden, widespread Maya Terminal Classic period collapse is no longer accepted by most Maya archaeologists. This lecture describes current research which stresses variability in the Terminal Classic period. Recent hypotheses about climate change and drought are highlighted.

Short bibliography and/or website on lecture topic:

Aimers, J. J., 2007 What Maya Collapse? Terminal Classic Variation in the Maya Lowlands. Journal of Archaeological Research 15:329-377.

Webster, D. L., 2002 The Fall of the Ancient Maya. Thames and Hudson, London.

A short interview with Professor Aimers about the Maya collapse on the Royal Ontario Museum website: http://www.rom.on.ca/maya/exhibition/maya_collapse.php

Featured Lecturer

Michael Hoff is Professor of Art History at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he has taught since 1989. His research interests include Greek architecture, the architectural topography... Read More