Burial variation and funerary rituals in early iron age Greece: a comparative study of Athens, the Euboean Gulf regions and connected islands

Davies, Christopher L. (2024). Burial variation and funerary rituals in early iron age Greece: a comparative study of Athens, the Euboean Gulf regions and connected islands. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis investigates burial practices and contingent rituals during the Early Iron Age in Greece, with a specific focus on Athens, the Euboean Gulf, and associated Islands. The core of this research lies in six gazetteer chapters, each dedicated to a distinct geographical location 1) Athens, 2) Euboea, 3) Boeotia, 4) Magnesia, 5) Phthiotis-East Locris-Phokis, and 6) Pithekoussai-Naxos-Paros-Skyros-Skiathos. In the analysis of burial sites I examine the social dynamics underpinning regional burial customs. A comparative analysis of the data for all the applicable areas is then used to identify mortuary variability, highlighting identify trends and differences. The intricacies of the funerary process and related rituals provide contextual insight into the web of beliefs and practices. In the conclusion, I offer a nuanced perspective of the complexities inherent in Early Iron Age burials and rituals in central Greece. By placing the results within a multidimensional framework, my research contributes to our broader understanding of archaeology of the period and of the social and cultural factors that shaped this Greek society in the pre-Archaic period

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):