Capturing emotions in the factory: an archaeological analysis of women’s lives through industrial photographs in Portugal

Abstract

Studying emotions in archaeology poses significant challenges, particularly in varying chronologies and contexts. The emotions of women working in industrial sites, often overlooked and disregarded, exemplify this complexity. This paper endeavours to address this gap by exploring the emotional experiences of women within industrial settings. Employing a unique approach, the paper utilises photographs as archaeological artefacts to gather insights into the emotions these women may have experienced. Furthermore, the paper engages in a critical discussion regarding the responsibility of archaeologists in shaping new narratives surrounding emotional actors. By exploring these emotional dimensions, this study seeks to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of past societies and the individuals who inhabited them, shedding light on often marginalised perspectives and experiences.