The Life Scientific
Jacqueline McKinley on unearthing bones and stories at Britain's ancient burial sites
Apr 15, 2025
Jacqueline McKinley, a Principal Osteoarchaeologist with Wessex Archaeology, dives deep into the world of ancient burial sites. She shares how even burnt bone fragments reveal rich stories about lives and communities. Jackie discusses the shift in Western attitudes toward death, contrasting historical communal practices with today's privacy around death. She also reflects on her personal experience of keeping her late father's bone fragments, illustrating the emotional ties to the past. With advancements in forensic techniques, Jackie uncovers the intricate connection between archaeology and modern investigative practices.
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Quick takeaways
- Burnt human bone fragments can reveal extensive information about ancient societies, including individual demographics and cultural burial practices.
- Modern attitudes toward death have shifted from communal acknowledgment to greater secrecy, reflecting changes in societal values over time.
Deep dives
Unveiling the Secrets of Cremated Remains
Cremated bone fragments have the potential to provide extensive information about ancient societies, revealing insights beyond mere ashes. Contrary to common misconceptions, ancient cremation processes often leave behind identifiable skeletal elements, which can indicate the number of individuals, their age, and sex. Additionally, items buried alongside the deceased, known as pyre goods, can shed light on personal attributes and burial rites. Analyzing these remains allows osteoarchaeologists to reconstruct the mortuary practices and cultural significance associated with death in ancient communities.
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