Anthropology of Death. Funeral Rites and Ghosts in World Cultures

Why do some people fear encountering the otherworldly, while others calmly accept the inevitability of the end? What practices, rituals, and ceremonies are used to honor the memory of a loved one on their final journey? And what explains the modern society's tendency to push aside the very thought of life's finiteness?

French anthropologist Grégoire Delaplace explores the role of the dead in contemporary society and their influence on everyday life. You will embark on an exciting journey through various epochs and cultures, uncovering the secrets of ancient customs, understanding the reasons behind the fear of death, and getting acquainted with peculiar funeral rites, such as choosing a bride for the deceased or attempts to cheat death. After all, as the author asserts, caring for the repose of the dead is just as important as dealing with the everyday problems that pursue us each day.