Towards a Media-Archaeology of Sirenic Articulations Listening with Media-Archaeological Ears

A media-archaeological expedition to the Li Galli islands off Italy's Amalfi coast revealed surprising acoustic properties that challenge traditional interpretations of Homeric Sirens' mythical singing. Using positivistic measurement technologies, researchers mapped the sonosphere of this 'acoustic theatre,' uncovering new evidence about its sound environment. The study demonstrates how media archaeology and cultural aesthetics intersect: while precise measurements provide empirical data, they gain meaning only when contextualized with historical knowledge. This dual approach offers a novel framework for understanding the acoustic dimensions of ancient myths.

Ernst, W. (2016). Towards a Media-Archaeology of Sirenic Articulations Listening with Media-Archaeological Ears. The Nordic Journal of Aesthetics, 24(48). https://doi.org/10.7146/nja.v24i48.23066