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Walter Gropius

Fagus Factory in Alfeld — 2017 — WHEA188B4B0B2

Walter Gropius, a pioneering architect, advanced the integration of art and industrial design through his influential essays (1911–1914), notably emphasizing the cultural significance of industrial architecture. His 1910 collaboration with Adolf Meyer on the Fagus Factory in Alfeld—a groundbreaking complex—merged monumental construction with innovative glazed surfaces to optimize natural light and ventilation, setting a precedent for modern industrial design. Gropius's work, rooted in his studies at Munich and Berlin technical colleges, challenged traditional architectural norms by prioritizing functional aesthetics while elevating mass-produced objects to cultural artifacts.

Walter Gropius: The Fagus Factory

Fagus Factory in Alfeld — 2017 — WHEE1946B5349

A groundbreaking architectural analysis reveals Walter Gropius' innovative design philosophy, exemplified by the Fagus Factory in Alfeld. This study dissects his classic works to uncover how structural and functional elements were harmonized to challenge traditional norms, emphasizing industrial aesthetics and spatial efficiency. Gropius' approach integrated modernist principles with practical engineering, setting a precedent for 20th-century architecture. The research employs comparative analysis of his projects, highlighting the Fagus Factory as a pivotal case study that bridges theoretical thought and built environment.

Waltzing the Heritage Icons: 'Swagmen', 'Squatters' and 'Troopers' at North West Cape and Ningaloo Reef

Ningaloo Coast — 2017 — WHE604D192BAF

The North West Cape-Ningaloo Reef region, adjacent to Ningaloo Reef and 165 kilometers south of Exmouth, exemplifies the complex interplay between heritage values, environmental concerns, and development pressures. This study highlights how the heritages associated with 'swagmen,' 'squatters,' and 'troopers' intersect in this iconic Australian landscape, reflecting differing perspectives on preservation versus progress. Using a framework inspired by Australia's national anthem, 'Waltzing Matilda,' the research illustrates ongoing debates over tourism development, particularly following the construction of a hotel at Coral Bay. The analysis underscores the tension between local environmental stewardship and the representation of historical narratives in heritage management.

Was Thebes Necessary? Contingency in Spatial Modeling

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2017 — WHE9A55E8A761

The rise of Thebes as a dominant Greek city-state was highly contingent, shaped by social forces that cannot be fully captured by simple network modeling. Unlike other cities such as Athens, whose prominence stemmed from geographic and proximity-based advantages, Thebes' success appears to have been influenced by factors outside the scope of traditional spatial models. This study re-examines the rise of Greek city-states using a 'retail' gravity model, highlighting that while some outcomes are predictable due to consistent modeling choices, others—like Thebes—show significant variability, suggesting sensitivity to chance or unique historical circumstances. The research emphasizes the importance of recognizing contingency in settlement formation and challenges the assumption that spatial models can fully explain urban development.

Water Quality in the Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal: A Modification of Viable Field-based Testing Methods

Sagarmatha National Park — 2017 — WHE8D1EC6B112

Poorly managed solid waste disposal in the Sagarmatha National Park (SNP), Nepal, is significantly degrading major rivers and drinking water sources. This study identifies contamination sources and assesses the extent of water quality issues while developing practical solutions. The research faced challenges due to the remote, rugged terrain, leading to modifications in field-based testing methods. It also broadened its scope to include community-based resource management efforts, recognizing the need for stakeholder engagement to address social, economic, and environmental risks effectively. The adapted methodology is adaptable to similar remote mountainous regions worldwide.

Wave forcing and morphological changes of New Caledonia lagoon islets: Insights on their possible relations

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2017 — WHEF7FFFB961E

Research suggests that wave dynamics significantly influence the morphological changes of islets within the UNESCO-listed Lagoons of New Caledonia. The study identifies three dominant wave types affecting these islets: high-frequency lagoon-generated waves, low-frequency swells from the Tasman Sea, and infragravity waves. High-frequency waves primarily drive islet morphology during typical wind events year-round, while infragravity waves dominate during seasonal swell events, often generated by breaking low-frequency waves or propagated through reef channels. Topographic surveys revealed both seasonal changes and longer-term erosion patterns, hinting at a potential link between wave forcing and islet evolution. Though further validation is needed, this work provides critical insights into the complex interactions shaping these fragile ecosystems.

Weimar

Bauhaus and its Sites in Weimar, Dessau and Bernau — 2017 — WHE6F76A3A6B9

Walter Laqueur's authoritative work on Weimar culture challenges the conventional narrative linking Expressionism and avant-garde movements solely to post-World War I and the Weimar Republic (1919-1933). Instead, it demonstrates that these cultural shifts predated the republic by a decade, revealing a more complex and nuanced relationship between political upheaval and artistic innovation. The study examines a broad spectrum of intellectual activity, including contributions from both political right and left, universities, and literary circles, while also analyzing the societal reactions against Weimar culture that culminated in the rise of Hitler. Laqueur's comprehensive analysis provides critical insights into Germany's cultural and political history during this pivotal period.

Wet-Site Excavation and Field Methodology at Butrint, Albania: The Roman Forum Excavations Project

Butrint — 2017 — WHE46D8382B31

A groundbreaking approach to wet-site excavation at Butrint, Albania, has revealed well-preserved organic remains dating back to the 7th century BCE. The Roman Forum Excavations (RFE) Project, conducted between 2011 and 2013, pioneered the use of water table depths as a limit for archaeological excavation, reaching up to 4 meters below the surface in the ancient urban center. This methodology not only uncovered significant organic materials but also demonstrated the effectiveness of training local workers, which significantly improved excavation techniques and data quality. The study highlights the interconnectedness of field methodologies and their impact on the preservation and understanding of wet-site archaeology.

What the Bricks Tell Us from a Temple at Burkhan Khaldun Mountains: Chronological Insights from pIRIR Luminescence

Great Burkhan Khaldun Mountain and its surrounding sacred landscape — 2017 — WHEE15F87CC57

A groundbreaking study leverages post-IR infrared luminescence (pIRIR) to date bricks from the Buddhist temple ruins at Burkhan Khaldun Mountains, Mongolia, revealing their manufacturing period between 1230±50 AD and 1280±40 AD. This aligns with the era of extensive construction in Karakorum, offering chronological insights into the region's architectural history. The research applied both coarse and polymineral fine grain techniques to feldspar, distinguishing it from previous methods. Additionally, the study compared mineralogical compositions of bricks from various temple sites, including those in Karakorum and Erdene Zuu, enhancing our understanding of historical brick production and trade.

What was the population of Great Zimbabwe (CE1000 – 1800)?

Great Zimbabwe National Monument — 2017 — WHE1C907D0080

Archaeological research challenges the long-held assumption that Great Zimbabwe, one of Africa's most iconic settlements, supported a population of 20,000 at its peak. By integrating archaeological, ethnographic, and historical evidence with ecological and statistical modeling, the study concludes that the total population across its 800-year occupation (CE1000–1800) likely did not exceed 10,000 people. This revised estimate is supported by the absence of megamiddens, chronological differences in settlement phases, and historical records indicating low populations in southern Africa between CE1600 and 1950. The findings reshape our understanding of Great Zimbabwe's demographic scale and its role as a trade hub linking southern Africa to global networks.

When Absence Means Things Are Going Well: Waste Disposal in Roman Towns and its Impact on the Record as Observed in Aquileia

Archaeological Area and the Patriarchal Basilica of Aquileia — 2017 — WHE15AC69B1D6

Roman towns with effective waste disposal systems may have underrepresented historical periods due to the periodic removal of discarded materials, as observed in Aquileia. This study highlights that urban maintenance and waste management practices can significantly impact archaeological records, making it challenging to accurately infer ancient economic trends from findings within city limits. The research focuses on the House of Titus Macer in Aquileia, noting its mid-imperial phase is poorly represented despite regular maintenance, suggesting a need for caution when using intra-urban data for historical conclusions. To address this gap, future studies should prioritize large extra moenia dumps to better understand the full scope of Roman urban waste disposal and its implications.

When chytrid doesn't kill : how it spread in túngara frogs and how females might avoid it

Darien National Park — 2017 — WHE72B6A2B142

Tungara frogs, despite being tolerant to chytridiomycosis caused by the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), may experience sub-lethal effects that influence their reproductive behavior and success. This study found that Bd infection could alter male mating calls, potentially allowing females to avoid infected males through phonotaxis experiments. The research also revealed that Bd had spread rapidly across Panama from 2010 to 2015, including into previously uninfected regions like Darien National Park, suggesting lowland species may act as reservoirs for the pathogen. By analyzing population dynamics and reproductive behaviors over five years, the study highlighted long-term, non-lethal impacts of Bd on tolerant species, offering insights relevant to other wildlife-pathogen interactions.

When theory and practice clash: participatory governance and management in Takht-e Soleyman

Takht-e Soleyman — 2017 — WHEC4F4D6C577

This study reveals a significant gap between international theories and national policies on participatory governance and the actual implementation of these approaches at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly in rural cultural landscapes like Takht-e Soleyman. The research highlights challenges in aligning management practices with theoretical values, emphasizing the need for locally tailored strategies. Using a combination of theoretical analysis, in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, and large-scale surveys of local populations, the study provides a detailed examination of governance mechanisms at Takht-e Soleyman. It underscores the importance of adapting participatory management systems to local features while maintaining consistency with broader policies.

Whose Castle is it Anyway?: Local/Global Negotiations of a Shakespearean Location

Kronborg Castle — 2017 — WHEE0BF0A8898

Kronborg Castle, associated with Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' faces a cultural identity crisis where its fictional reputation overshadows its historical significance. Marketed as 'Hamlet’s Castle' and Elsinore as the 'Home of Hamlet,' the castle's global recognition is driven more by Shakespearean tourism than Danish heritage. This study reveals how Kronborg's identity has been reshaped over two centuries through international Shakespearean performances, reflecting evolving ideologies. It also questions how this identity may adapt amid rising nationalism in Europe and worldwide. The research employs a qualitative approach, analyzing naming conventions, performance traditions, and ideological shifts to explore the tension between local heritage and global cultural narratives.

Whose Order, Whose Planning?

White City of Tel-Aviv – the Modern Movement — 2017 — WHE9FABE0C259

Zionism, as a modern nationalist movement, is inherently colonial, shaping Tel Aviv into a colonial city that reflects its globalized Israeli identity. The book 'Whose Order, Whose Planning?' explores how the Levant Fair site's modern architecture introduced innovation to Tel Aviv in the 1930s, but post-1948 state establishment transformed urban planning and memory narratives, including Holocaust remembrance. It examines the interplay between Zionist ideologies, colonial discourse, and architectural evolution, offering a critical lens on Tel Aviv's urban development as a symbol of both modernism and national identity.

Whose Prehistory? Thailand before the Thais

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site — 2017 — WHEA1FB0BD0F5

Archaeological investigations at Ban Chiang, northeast Thailand, revealed significant Neolithic and Bronze Age sites that challenged French colonial theories of cultural diffusion. These findings, uncovered by joint Thai-American missions in the 1960s–70s, were intertwined with Cold War politics, leading to extensive artifact transfers, including to The University Museum, Philadelphia. Ban Chiang later gained UNESCO World Heritage status but remains peripherally remembered in Thai cultural memory despite its archaeological significance.

Why My Jewishness Compels Me to Stand for Justice in Palestine

Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945) — 2017 — WHE391E6DE378

A Jewish American author reflects on their journey from Holocaust remembrance to activism against the Israeli-Palestinian occupation, highlighting how their Jewish values of justice and compassion compel them to advocate for Palestinian dignity. The narrative contrasts two divergent paths in modern Judaism: one rooted in fear and insularity, and another in social justice and nonviolent resistance. The author's personal transformation—from a sheltered upbringing to witnessing the horrors of the Holocaust at Auschwitz-Birkenau, followed by exposure to Palestinian suffering in Hebron—illustrates the tension between Jewish identity and ethical responsibility. Their activism with IfNotNow and the Center for Jewish Nonviolence underscores a growing movement among young Jews who reject complicity in occupation, seeking to reconcile their heritage with universal human rights.

Wiejski krajobraz osadniczy i możliwości jego wykorzystania w turystyce (na wybranych przykładach)

Holašovice Historic Village — 2017 — WHEC0592F5AA9

Rural landscapes, particularly those with strong cultural heritage, are increasingly recognized as valuable resources for tourism. This study highlights the potential of Holašovice Historic Village (Czech Republic) and other rural settlements to serve as both sources of cultural value—such as individual historic buildings—and synthetic cultural assets, like cohesive ruralistic layouts. By analyzing four case studies—Holašovice, Swołowo (Poland), Spanish casas rurales, and the Wooden Architecture Trail in Małopolska—the research demonstrates how these landscapes can be strategically integrated into tourism development. The approach combines spatial analysis of settlement patterns with architectural traditions, offering a framework for sustainable rural tourism that balances preservation with economic potential.

Women, Gender and Identity in Third Intermediate Period Egypt

Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis — 2017 — WHE81FCAA3F77

A groundbreaking analysis reveals the multifaceted roles of women in Third Intermediate Period Egypt (1070–656 BCE), challenging traditional portrayals of them as merely subordinates. By focusing on material culture—specifically elite female burial practices centered around Thebes, Egypt’s cultural and religious hub—this study uncovers diverse social, professional, and individual identities beyond the normative wife or mother. Unlike prior research reliant on literary sources, this work employs a methodologically rigorous, archaeology-driven approach to reconstruct identity construction, offering new insights into ancient Egyptian women's agency and societal influence. The findings enrich scholarly discourse on gender in antiquity and appeal to both academics and general audiences interested in women’s history.

Women, Sex and Marriage in Early Modern Venice

Venice and its Lagoon — 2017 — WHE265E990659

A groundbreaking study reveals the pivotal role of sexual morality in shaping patriarchal structures within early modern Venice, particularly during the Counter-Reformation era. By meticulously analyzing ecclesiastical and civil lawsuits involving illicit sex, broken marriage promises, and marital disputes among artisans and ordinary individuals, the research demonstrates how gender dynamics were contested not only in daily life but also in courtship rituals and domestic spheres. The findings highlight the active role of neighbors as mediators, offering insights into moral values and social support networks within this heterogeneous community. This work significantly advances fields such as gender history, social history, and the history of crime and sexuality.

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