[Aztlan] The "Indy Effect" and Ian Graham

[Dave Pentecost]

In the article that David Hixson linked to, the writer notes:

"The whip-wielding character is the most widely recognised image of an
archaeologist and largely due to this, the field enjoys huge and
untainted popularity. Yet many archaeologists still seem desperate to
distance themselves from the phenomenon."

I've noticed, though, that when an archaeological find hits the press,
it is often the archaeologist who makes a reference to Indy, in a
direct quote. I haven't seen that distancing in action. Perhaps the
archaeologists who are most successful at getting press have gotten
into the habit of playing the Indiana Jones card.

And does anyone have any anecdotal (or solid) evidence to show that
the filmmakers based Indy on Ian Graham? Here's mine: a photo of Ian
that I saw, taken in the 50's or 60's, that shows him in a hat,
leather jacket, and holding a bullwhip.

I am not implying that Ian has any of Indy's faults, but he is an
adventurous character, at home in the jungle or the Ivy League. If we
must have a hero, he's my candidate.

http://www.hno.harvard.edu/gazette/2007/04.26/99-graham.html

Best
Dave

On Wed, May 21, 2008 at 3:51 PM, David Hixson <aztlandave at yahoo.com> wrote:
> I would like to echo Elaine's comments...
>
> We mustn't read too far into any television special
> run on the Sci-Fi Channel (the same channel that
> carries the show "Stargate" - based on the idea that
> aliens started most civilizations on Earth about
> 10,000 years ago).
>
> The Crystal Skull "documentary" was meant as
> entertainment for this particular audience.  Let's not
> get into any in-depth discussion about pure
> entertainment without any sense of humor regarding the
> subject matter.
>
> For those concerned about the "Indiana Jones Effect"
> on archaeology, you might enjoy:
>
> http://www.newscientist.com/channel/opinion/mg19826566.000
>
> -Dave
>
>
>
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