Dimensions of Social Hierarchy in Late Bronze Age Cyprus

An Analysis of the Mortuary Data from Enkomi

Abstract

This paper examines the evidence for developments in social complexity accompanying the urbanization process at the Late Bronze Age site of Enkomi in Cyprus. The extent of variability in tomb architecture and assemblages of grave goods suggests that considerable differentiation in wealth and status had developed among the various groups residing at Enkomi at an early date. It is possible to document the presence of elite groups employing distinctive complements of prestige goods and politico-religious symbolism by the late Cypriote IIA period if not sooner. Changes in mortuary practice and elite symbolism towards the end of the Late Cypriote period may reflect a redefinition of the basis of status and political legitimacy as an increasingly complex framework of political and religious institutions emerged.