Window glass. Does social status matter?

• Main Author: Lovísa Agnes Jónsdóttir 1970-
• Other Authors: Háskóli Íslands
• Format: Bachelor Thesis
• Language: Icelandic
• Published: 2024
• Subjects: Fornleifafræði; Iceland
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1946/46566

This thesis aims to examine the use of window glass in Iceland from 1200 to 1800 based on archaeological findings from different excavation sites. It will also examine whether there are differences between sites regarding different social and economic statuses and identify patterns between sites. To answer these questions, the archaeological findings from 27 sites were examined regarding the presence and quantity of window glass, the analysis of it, dating, and the assumptions the researchers made on social status from their analysis of the excavation. The results show that window glass was brought to Iceland in the 12th - 14th centuries, and it seems that its use slowly grew until the 18th century, mainly in churches and at farm sites with churches. Excavation at sites that can be characterized as places of authority or religion indicates that the use of window glass began sooner than in domestic houses and in greater quantities, likely because of a higher social status.