Muyang Shi

Thesis Title

Change and Continuity in the Spatial and Social Organisation of Late Longshan (2500-1900BC) Sites on Zhengzhou Plains, Henan, China

Research Interests

Landscape Archaeology; GIS and Archaeology; Archaeological Theory; Fieldwork Methodology; Survey and Remote Sensing; Historic Environment

My DPhil project aims to understand the complex spatial dynamics behind the construction of fortifications on Chinese Central Plains (mainly Henan province) in the Late Longshan Period (roughly 2200-1900 BCE). While many argue that these walls, gates and ditches were mainly built to defend against external threats, I plan to further explore how the construction process shapes population and how such structures that significantly alter human movement and visibility can serve functions other than providing protection.