Forming part of the Bloomsbury ‘Debates in archaeology’ series, this book focuses on the origins of the civilization of Angkor. Written by Charles F.W. Higham, Research Professor at the University of Otago, this short book attempts to cover a huge topic and is a noteworthy publication for anyone interested in this area.
The early chapters of the book discuss the history of the region and places different settlements in context. Although the book is written in a style that is accessible to both archaeologists and non-archaeologists alike, there is some assumed prior knowledge by the author regarding the geographical locations of the sites. A map could have been helpful here.
Higham has researched this area in detail and has undertaken a thorough reading of appropriate sources. This book does not simply regurgitate previously published information and indeed, Higham has undertaken a lot of field work in this area. This is evident from his findings.
The primary evidence for the origins of Angkor has been taken from the burial sites. Through this Higham has tried to analyse DNA and bone samples to deduce where the settlers originated. Higham does however state that this is the best form of evidence when researching where people originated. He has also been able to analyse what their diet was like through tooth samples, which helps us understand the diet of the people at this time.
The book is written in a way in which it can cross between a general reading book and also one for reference. It contains only 17 images but the weighting between text and images seems relevant.
This book provides an excellent overview of the origins of the Angkor civilization and would be suited to anyone interested in this region, or the civilizations of Cambodia as a whole. It is technical in places but provides a rewarding overview for the reader.