Microhistory, Archaeological Record, and the Subaltern Debris

Abstract

This article explores the challenges of translating the empirical data recorded in the microhistorical events documented in most archaeological sites into narratives that provide a deeper understanding of long-term historical processes. It specifically focuses on the importance of studying the history of subaltern communities through this microhistorical scale. Drawing on the concept of “subaltern debris,” the article proposes a new approach to analyzing archaeological deposits generated by the everyday life of subaltern communities. It argues that these deposits can offer valuable insights into the living conditions and agency of subaltern communities. The article presents two case studies from the late antique period in the Iberian Peninsula to illustrate the potential of this approach. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of recognizing the material agency of subaltern communities in reshaping historical narratives.

Keywords

• microhistory
• archaeological record
• subaltern communities
• late antiquity
• agency