7th century burial customs

Definition

7th century burial customs refer to the specific practices and rituals associated with interring the dead during this period, particularly in early medieval Europe. These customs often reflected societal beliefs about death, the afterlife, and social status, as evidenced by grave goods and the structure of burial sites. Notably, these practices provide critical insights into the cultural and spiritual life of communities in this era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In 7th century England, burial practices began to shift from cremation to inhumation as Christianity spread, reflecting changing beliefs about life after death.
2. Burial sites from this period often contained rich grave goods that indicated the social status of the individual, showcasing their wealth and importance in life.
3. The Sutton Hoo site is one of the most famous examples of 7th century burial customs, revealing elaborate ship burials that highlight maritime traditions.
4. Burials were typically oriented east-west, a practice believed to symbolize resurrection and the hope of an afterlife, especially in Christian contexts.
5. Communal burials were common in some regions, where multiple individuals were interred together, suggesting a sense of community or shared identity among the deceased.

Review Questions

• How did burial customs in the 7th century reflect societal beliefs about death and the afterlife?
  • Burial customs in the 7th century revealed much about societal beliefs regarding death and the afterlife. The transition from cremation to inhumation indicated a growing influence of Christianity and its teachings on resurrection and eternal life. Additionally, the inclusion of grave goods demonstrated a belief that items could be used by the deceased in the afterlife, reflecting cultural values around wealth and status.
• Analyze how archaeological findings at sites like Sutton Hoo contribute to our understanding of 7th century burial customs.
  • Archaeological findings at sites such as Sutton Hoo provide vital information on 7th century burial customs by showcasing elaborate burial rituals and rich grave goods. The discovery of a ship burial filled with treasures emphasizes maritime culture and the importance of status among elite individuals. Such sites not only reveal specific practices but also offer insights into the spiritual beliefs and social hierarchies of early medieval societies.
• Evaluate the significance of grave goods found in 7th century burials and what they indicate about social stratification during this time.
  • Grave goods found in 7th century burials are significant as they provide evidence of social stratification within early medieval communities. The presence of luxury items like weapons, jewelry, and ceremonial artifacts indicates that certain individuals held higher status or wealth compared to others. This distinction informs us about power dynamics, trade relations, and cultural values of the time. By analyzing these goods, we gain a deeper understanding of how identity and status were expressed through burial practices.

Related terms

Grave Goods: Items buried with the deceased, often including weapons, jewelry, and everyday objects, which were believed to assist the dead in the afterlife.

Barrow: A large burial mound constructed over a grave, typically used for high-status individuals during the 7th century.

Cremation: The practice of burning the deceased as a method of disposal, which was common in certain cultures during this time, contrasting with inhumation.