Cultural biographies, cognitive landscapes and dirty old bits of boat: "Theory" in maritime archaeology

Advances in the use of archaeological theory by maritime archaeologists are proposed after a brief review of recent literature on the subject. A disparity in theoretical discussion between maritime and 'mainstream' archaeology is noted and reasons for this discussed, before two areas are explored where mutual advances might be made: an 'engendered' maritime archaeology and 'Marxist' perspectives. The paper concludes by considering the development of specific theoretical approaches unique to the maritime sphere. (c) 2003 The Nautical Archaeology Society