Re: Time Team Reservoir Rituals | Forum

Sanctuary Feb 8, 2011 15:46:41

Replying to goffik

I recorded the dig and have just watched it again. Some of the original claims are quite amazing and just for a laugh I imagined Francis going into a courtroom and trying to prove what he was claiming. What do you think the verdict would be and I'm being completely cynical here! The (bracketed) text is my cynical verdict.

When Francis was asked by Tony soon after the beginning of the programme, "What does it mean, what was it for? he replied:-

"Well what is was, was for the different things in peoples lives that they wanted made formal and ceremonial." (Pure guesswork).

"The cairns were for when someone passed on to the next world" (total speculation).

"The double row of stones a processional route possibly for a new Chief when he came to power" (total speculation).

"The stone circle is where they came to celebrate the changing of the seasons" (total speculation)

As I say, just a bit of fun but it sort of becomes par for the course doesn't it when in reality we actually haven't a clue what it is all about!

I'll go and lie down now :D

jackyboy Feb 8, 2011 17:04:45

Replying to Sanctuary

I think it's safe to say it's ritual or ceremonial but after that, its take your choice of which fantasy you wish to believe in.

1speed Feb 9, 2011 21:42:18

Replying to Sanctuary

My friend and I have a couple of phrases picked up off various interpretation boards here and there which we always find useful when talking about sites. One is "We believe that... ", and the other is "It is thought that...". Both neatly avoid the "speculating adamantly" which good old FP does occasionally seem prone to. That said, I've got a lot of time for the chap and respect for his knowledge and experience. His enthusiasm for the subject also shines through, and is a joy to behold.

We've also found that a knowing nod combined with the use of the words "Ritual" or "Ceremonial" when visiting a site can reduce us to hysterics, so is best avoided if other folks are about, not to mention the funny looks we get from the dog... :-)