Description

The Untold Story of American Funeral and Mourning Traditions

Why do we embalm the deceased? Why are funerals so expensive? Is there a reason coffins are shaped the way they are? Whenand whydid we start viewing the deceased? Ceremonies for honoring the departed are crucial parts of our lives, but few people know where our traditional practices come fromand what they reveal about our history, culture, and beliefs about death. In Last Rites, author Todd Harra takes you on a fascinating exploration of American funeral practicesexamining where they came from, what they mean, and how they are still evolving.

Our conventions around death, burial, and remembrance have undergone many great transitionssometimes due to technology, respect for tradition, shifting sensibilities, or even to thwart grave robbers. Here youll explore:

Influences for American ritualsfrom medieval Europe, the Roman Empire, and even ancient Egypt
When mourning fell out of fashionand how George Washingtons passing brought it back
Abraham Lincolns landmark funeral and its widespread impact
Flowers, liquor, mourning gifts, and casketsthe reasons behind our grieving customs
Unknown soldiershow warfare influenced funeral and bereavement practices and vice versa
How growing populations, religion, inventions, and media have changed and continue to shape our traditions
The future of our death ritesmushroom suits, green burial, body donation, flameless cremation, home funerals, and more

The rich story of the American funeral is one of constant evolution. Whether youre planning a funeral service or are simply intrigued by the meaning behind American burial practices, Last Rites is an informative and compelling exploration of the historyand futureof the ceremonies we use to say farewell to those who have departed this world.

Author: Todd Harra
Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Sounds True
Published: 08/02/2022
Pages: 288
Weight: 1.1lbs
Size: 8.60h x 5.80w x 1.10d
ISBN: 9781683648055
Language: English