Gender archaeology is a method of studying ancient societies by closely examining the roles played by men and women in the past as exhibited through the archaeological record.

Gender archaeologists examine the relative positions in society of men and women through identifying and studying the differences in power and authority they held. These differences can survive in the physical record although they are not always immediately apparent and are often open to interpretation. The relationship between the genders can also inform relationships between other social groups such as families, different classes, ages and religions.

See also: Feminist archaeology