The Places Where People Dumped their Waste in the Jomon Period – Persona 3 Reload

Anastasios Antoniadis

Share on Facebook Share on X (Twitter) Share on LinkedIn Share on RedditIn “Persona 3 Reload,” players face a unique challenge of not just battling Shadows and building social relationships, but also acing academic quizzes. These quizzes are a signature feature of the Persona series, combining real-world knowledge with the game’s fictional elements. One notable … Read more

Persona 3 Reload (14)

In “Persona 3 Reload,” players face a unique challenge of not just battling Shadows and building social relationships, but also acing academic quizzes. These quizzes are a signature feature of the Persona series, combining real-world knowledge with the game’s fictional elements. One notable instance is on April 18th, when the history teacher Mr. Ono presents a question that delves into the depths of Japanese history, specifically, the Jomon period. Mr. Ono, a samurai enthusiast, challenges the players to recall the significant events of the period.

“The places where people dumped their waste in the Jomon period – what are they called nowadays?”

The question at hand is deceptively simple yet perplexing: What are the Jomon period waste disposal sites currently known as? Unlike the assistance provided by Ms. Toriumi earlier in the game, Mr. Ono offers no such aid, leaving players to rely on their own knowledge—or a quick online search—to uncover the answer.

Given the choices of Boneyards, Middens, or Hovels, the correct answer is not immediately apparent, especially for those unfamiliar with archaeological terminology or the specifics of prehistoric Japan. As it turns out, the correct answer is “Middens.

Middens, often referred to as “shell heaps,” are a significant archaeological feature not just in Japan but worldwide. These ancient refuse heaps, located near former human settlements, offer a treasure trove of information to modern archaeologists. Comprising human waste, mollusk shells, animal bones, and botanical debris, middens provide invaluable insights into the daily lives, diets, and environmental interactions of past human societies.

“Persona 3 Reload” includes a specific and detailed question, showcasing the game’s dedication to integrating educational elements into its gameplay. This feature challenges players to expand their knowledge beyond the virtual world and encourages a deeper understanding of history and archaeology. Additionally, the game’s approach to education, which includes direct answers, hints, and the occasional need for external research, mirrors the complexities of real-world learning. In the real world, not all answers are readily available, and curiosity often leads to discovery.

For players, the revelation that middens are the ancient counterparts to modern waste disposal sites serves as a reminder of the continuity of human habits across millennia. It highlights the importance of waste management throughout history and its role in understanding ancient peoples’ cultural practices, environmental stewardship, and survival strategies.

As “Persona 3 Reload” continues to challenge players with its blend of mythological, historical, and cultural questions, it stands as a testament to the potential of video games as a medium for education and engagement with the past. The game entertains and educates, providing a window into the richness of human history and the enduring curiosity that drives us to explore the unknown depths of our collective past.

Anastasios Antoniadis
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