
Remake/Remodel: Topic Modelling to examine shifting Archaeological Heritage Discourse
Abstract
Archaeological heritage discourse produced within the academic context helps to shape and support decision-making capacities in managing, conserving, and disseminating archaeological heritage landscapes for consumption. Whether the result is additional research or reshaping these sites and landscapes within a public gaze, texts within the academic record give insight into the factors effecting the trajectory of research. This article aims to highlight the benefits of applying the Topic Modelling approach the trace shifts in archaeological heritage discourse within academic literature. Specifically, analyzing the Stonehenge monument and landscape to evaluate the evolutions in the direction of narratives assigned to aspects of the preserved past and the resulting types of value and significance attributed. Considering how archaeological heritage landscapes are altered within academic literature over time and the subsequent impact these shifts have. Quantitative textual analysis techniques, like Topic Modelling, are valuable tools that can assist in detecting the presence of deviations in the narratives, values, and meanings ascribed to surviving archaeological heritage. Results showcase the benefits of applying the tool within this context as well as the evolution of how academics discuss the various iterations of the Stonehenge monument and landscape.
© 2026 Haley Anne Schwartz, Xavier Rubio Campillo, Ana Pastor Pérez, published by Ubiquity Press
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.