Title
Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts: A History of Burial,Used
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Drawing on extensive historical and anthropological research, personal accounts, and interviews with people who work in the funeral industry, Penny Colman examines the compelling subjects of death and burial across cultures and societies. The text, enriched with stories both humorous and poignant, includes details about the decomposition and embalming processes (an adult corpse buried six feet deep without a coffin will usually take five to ten years to turn into a skeleton) and describes the various customs associated with containing remains (the Igala people in Nigeria have a custom of burying people in as many as twentyseven layers of clothing). Intriguing facts are revealed at every turn; for example, in Madagascar winter was considered the corpseturning season.This comprehensive book also includes a list of burial sites of famous people, images in the arts associated with death, fascinating epitaphs and gravestone carvings, a chronology and a glossary, and over a hundred blackandwhite photographs, most of which were taken by the author.Penny Colman writes with compassion and intelligence and humanizes the difficult subjects of death and burial. The result is a powerful look at an inevitable part of lifedeath.
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This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of 'Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts'? A: The book has two hundred twenty-four pages. This includes comprehensive historical insights and personal accounts related to burial practices.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is bound in hardcover. Hardcover bindings are known for their durability and protection of the pages.
- Q: Who is the author of 'Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts'? A: The author is Penny Colman. She draws on extensive research and personal narratives in her examination of burial customs.
- Q: What themes are explored in this book? A: The book explores themes of death, burial customs, and cultural practices. It provides a historical context to various burial methods across societies.
- Q: Is this book suitable for young readers? A: This book is not specifically for children. It covers sensitive topics related to death and burial that may not be appropriate for younger audiences.
- Q: How can I use this book for research? A: You can use this book as a resource for understanding burial practices across different cultures. It includes historical data and personal accounts useful for academic purposes.
- Q: Are there illustrations in 'Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts'? A: Yes, the book contains over one hundred black-and-white photographs. Many of these images were taken by the author herself.
- Q: What type of audience would enjoy this book? A: Readers interested in anthropology, history, or cultural studies would appreciate this book. It appeals to those curious about unique burial customs.
- Q: How should I care for this hardcover book? A: To keep it in good condition, store it upright in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Q: Is there a glossary included in the book? A: Yes, the book includes a glossary. This helps readers understand specific terms related to death and burial practices.
- Q: What if my book arrives damaged? A: If your book arrives damaged, contact the seller for assistance with returns or exchanges. Most sellers have policies to address such issues.
- Q: Can I find famous burial sites mentioned in this book? A: Yes, the book includes a list of burial sites of famous individuals. This adds a fascinating layer to the exploration of burial practices.
- Q: Does this book address the process of embalming? A: Yes, it discusses the embalming process in detail. This includes insights into how various cultures handle the preservation of the deceased.
- Q: What is the publication date of 'Corpses, Coffins, and Crypts'? A: The book was published by Henry Holt and Company. For the exact publication date, please check the book's details.
- Q: Does the book include personal stories? A: Yes, it includes personal accounts and interviews with individuals in the funeral industry. This adds a human element to the study of burial practices.