The Inscriptions and Hieroglyphics at the Mayan Cities of Palenque and Copan
John Powell
Department of Anthropology
Abstract
During the Classic period of Maya civilization, the Maya developed a sophisticated system of writing, which incorporated a variety of pictorial and syllabographic components. These hieroglyphics were carved into the stone of many city-states such as Palenque and Copan. I have researched how the location of hieroglyphic inscriptions, such as in a temple or on a stela in a public plaza, correlates to the content and purpose of these glyphs. These purposes range from the recording of history to the description of religious practices.
Bio: I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA. My majors are Anthropology, History, and Earth and Environmental Science. I hope to go on to graduate school and enter a PhD program to study Mesoamerican Archaeology.
