Ritual Killing and Burial of Animals

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Ritual Killing and Burial of Animals

European Perspectives

Archaeology by period / region

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Language: English

Published by: Oxbow Books

Published on: 15th November 2011

Format: LCP-protected ePub

Size: 224 pages

ISBN: 9781842179246


Introduction

The killing and burial of animals in ritualistic contexts is encountered across Europe from Prehistory through to the historical period. This volume presents the state of research across Europe to illustrate how comparable interpretative frameworks are used by archaeologists working with both prehistoric and historical societies.

Key Questions

Key questions include: How easy is it to identify ritually killed animals in the archaeological record? Can we tell if an animal has been killed specifically for such a purpose? Is it possible to reconstruct the rites associated with their deposition? What insights can be gained about the religious paradigms and ritual systems of the societies engaged in animal sacrifice?

Conclusion

Together, the 16 papers represent a snapshot of the current state of research on this fundamental, recurring and spectacular aspect of human societies in the past.

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