Buried

Buried by Alice Roberts is a compelling exploration of the ancient funerary rituals that reveal intricate details about our ancestors' views on death, loss, and the afterlife. Set against the backdrop of Britain's first millennium, the book delves into a variety of burial practices from Roman cremations and graveside feasts to the intricately arranged deviant burials and richly furnished Anglo-Saxon graves. With a keen eye for detail, Professor Alice Roberts weaves together archaeological finds, cutting-edge DNA research, and historical writings to offer a fresh perspective on how people of the past lived by examining the stories they left behind through their burials. Her approach is both tender and fascinating, shedding light on the diverse and often poignant ways in which early Britons commemorated their dead. As in her previous works, including Ancestors, Roberts provides a lucid and illuminating narrative that makes complex archaeological concepts accessible to a wide audience. The book not only acts as an alternative history of Britain’s first millennium but also engages readers in a profound reflection on human mortality and memory. Funerary rituals are described meticulously, from the Roman customs where cremations were common and graveside feasts brought communities together in mourning, to the Anglo-Saxon graves that were often accompanied by elaborate personal items, indicating the status and beliefs of the deceased. The first Christian burial grounds in Wales are also explored, showing a significant cultural and religious shift during this period. Buried is more than just a history book; it is an intimate journey into the past, revealing how the dead were honoured and remembered. By examining these ancient practices, Roberts offers insights into the values, fears, and hopes of those who came before us. The meticulous research and compassionate storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in archaeology, history, and the enduring human quest to understand our place in the world.