midchronology

Midchronology is a term used in historical and archaeological studies to denote a specific period of time that falls between two more precisely defined eras. It is not a universally established period with fixed dates but rather a conceptual tool to describe a transitional or intermediate phase. The specific time frame encompassed by "midchronology" depends heavily on the subject matter and the temporal scale being examined. For instance, in the study of ancient civilizations, a "midchronology" might refer to the period between the early Bronze Age and the late Bronze Age. In geological terms, it could represent an epoch that lies between two major eras.

The utility of the term lies in its flexibility. Researchers may employ "midchronology" when evidence for a distinct, named period is scarce or when a clear demarcation between established periods is difficult to ascertain. It allows for a more nuanced understanding of historical development, acknowledging periods of overlap, continuity, or gradual change. The precise dating of a "midchronology" is often achieved through relative dating methods like stratigraphy or cross-dating, or through absolute dating techniques such as radiocarbon dating when applicable. The interpretation and definition of any given "midchronology" are subject to ongoing scholarly debate and refinement as new evidence emerges.