TPO5

In the reading the author tries to introduce three competing theories about the uses of the great houses found in the settlement of Chaco canyon. And he provides an evidence for each theory. On the other hand the professor believes that none of these theories is convincing. He refutes each evidence of the supposed theories.

First, the article avers that those great houses are purely residential. Because they are similar to the later Native American architecture in Taos in south west America. However the professor casts serious doubt on this theory. Because even though the outside view for the great houses in Chaco canyon looks like the later native American apartments in site of Taos in the south west. But the insider design lacks many fireplaces, so he concluded that it is Impossible for hundreds people to live in a house where just few fireplaces are there.

The second theory proposed by the author in the article is that those great houses are meant to store food supply such like maze grain inside them. Because they are spacious and that is suitable for storing food. On the other hand, the professor opposes this theory too. He says that this theory lacks evidence. Even though it sounds plausible. There is no maize spills or big containers left of found during excavation.

The third theory mentions in the article that those houses are built for ceremonial purposes because piles of broken pots are found close to pueblo alto. This heap supposed to be thrown after serving meals in a special ceremony. However the professor disagrees with this theory too. He says that many other material were found besides pots and that is a strong indicator that those mounds are just trash after construction working were left behind by workers, and never meant for ceremonial purposes