Illustrated with case studies of bog bodies and cannibalism, this book examines the major debates such as Neanderthal burial and monumentalising the dead, and studies what we can learn about how people live from the way they treat their dead?  

Part of the very exciting new Themes in Archaeology series, I.J. Thorpes book studies one of the most fundamental themes within archaeology. Other, less-frequently-discussed issues are examined, such as concepts of good and bad death and how these beliefs shaped the treatment of the dead. In exploring this major theme, the book moves towards a more effective archaeology, reflecting a growing interest in the emotion behind the dry bones approach of traditional cemetery analysis.

Highly useable as stand alone text, or providing a starting point for further study, all students of archaeology will find this an invaluable addition to their studies.