A VIRTUAL LECTURE BY
DR. JANE HILL
Assistant Professor of Anthropology
Rowan University
Cases of well provisioned Predynastic graves containing both disarticulated skeletons and plentiful and costly burial goods have invited various interpretations since their earliest documentation by W.M.F. Petrie and James Quibell in their publication of the excavation of the great Predynastic cemeteries of Naqada and Ballas. While Petrie's initial reading of cannibalism is not supported by the osteological or material record that survives to us, the presentation of these burials nevertheless raises interesting questions about the beliefs and ritual behind these postmortem arrangements. More recent discovery of a collection of disembodied skulls at the site of el-Adaima seems indicative of a less respectful and more sinister practice. Using the Predynastic mummy of a mature male in the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology collections as a lens through which to analyze these discoveries, the author will discuss the possible religious and environmental reasons for the treatment of these bodies. Evidence suggests that while the dissolution of the body in death was to be carefully avoided in some cases, it was actively sought in others, depending on the social role that each of these individuals inhabited within their communities. How may we understand decapitation, dismemberment, and re-articulation within the developing religious practice of Predynastic Egypt? The author offers an interpretation.
This virtual lecture will be presented via ZOOM.
Registration is required.
Please note that in the event that the Zoom attendance limit is reached,
preference will be given to ARCE-New England Chapter members.