Asta Mønsted

    Asta Mønsted

  • Assistant Professor
  • Arctic Studies
  • Email
  • Office: 6405 Dwinelle

Dr. Mønsted’s research focuses on the Greenlandic Inuit’s oral history and its potential to be evidenced in archaeological remains. Rather than using oral history to supplement archaeological interpretations post-excavation, Mønsted aims to let the oral history testify in its own right and challenge the archaeological record, prompting a reconsideration of current field methods.

In her dissertation (Copenhagen 2022), Mønsted examined Inuit stories documented in Greenland between 1735 and 1981. These stories shed light on the ideas and concepts Inuit connected to various architectural elements, such as ritual activities closely tied to the entrance tunnel. Therefore, the narratives offer new perspectives for researchers and communities to understand the built structures and natural landscapes of the Greenlandic Inuit. Additionally, they may inspire innovative approaches to designing future housing architecture and urban spaces in the Arctic.