Question

Write 5 differences between archeological and literary sources

Answer 1

Archaeological sources are physical historical evidences such as human or animal bones, personal objects, structures and other documented archaeological findings. Whereas literary sources are written documents (contemporary or not to the period being studied and/or related to any other subject not related to history) that describe, narrate or explain various topics (being historical, scientific or cultural).

Archeological sources include inscriptions, numismatics, excavations, art, paintings, etc.
Literary sources include, biographies, accounts of foreign travellers, books on law and government, historical dramas, oral record, etc.

Answer 2

Archeological sources can tell us about prehistoric periods, but literary sources can't.

Literary sources give a much more detailed account than archeological sources.

Archeological sources can help determine the exact age of prehistoric findings.

Literary sources give us an idea of the culture of a particular time in history. Literary sources also describe many historical events in detail.