Abstract

Why has the representational art of the Maya become the focus for so many archaeologists of vastly different fieldwork experience? And why are advances in analysis of social process, such as those provided by critical theories and post-structural methodologies, so rarely applied? Does nationalism preclude embrace of certain methodologies? Do some scholars retreat into increasingly fanciful and positivist reconstructions of ancient Maya society not despite the nightmare of repression and genocide that has befallen the living Maya but in reaction to it? Indeed, the efficacy of focusing on representation may derive from older Art Historical methodologies noted for their ability to separate objects from lived econornic and political realities in order to recontextualize thern in idealized and elite-defined settings. We must formulate a methodology which resists idealizing Ancient Maya society and which reckons with the impact of academic theorizing on current political situations.