Traci Ardren begins her book by recalling the words of a previous esteemed professor who suggested that students of ancient cultures see either the differences between their cultures and those of others or see their similarities. While she does not explicitly state where she stands on the matter, it is clear throughout the interweavings of the book that she stands with the latter group. This book explores social identities in ancient Maya society with vivid archaeological case examples of Classic and Postclassic peoples from northern Yucatan. The understandings of these identities are peppered with personal anecdotes, are considered in relation to the experiences, writings, and art work of Yucatecan Maya peoples today, and are firmly grounded in contemporary social theories, such as ideas on social memory, gender, and social imaginaries. These connections enliven the book, making it a pleasure to read. At the same time, the book features a career’s...

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