Infant/child burials and social reproduction in the Bronze Age and Early Iron Age (c. 2100-800 BC) of Central Italy

Author(s):
Rossenberg, E.A.
Editor(s):
Bacvarov, K
Published
2008
Publication type
Article in monograph or in proceedings

Abstract

Abstract: Special treatment of the remains of children is a well-known feature in Central Italy from the Neolithic onwards. Here I will focus on the evidence for the Bronze Age and Early Iron Age in two adjacent Central Italian regions (Abruzzo and Lazio). It will be argued that mortuary practice involving neonates, infants and children was connected with domestic symbolism, showing the enhanced cultural significance of infant/child burials. Investing child burials with domestic symbolism, burying communities singled out fundamental values in the social reproduction of households and local communities in the Bronze Age and Early Iron Age of Central Italy.

Key words: Central Italy, prehistory, child burials

Date issued
2008
Publisher
Oxford: Archaeopress
Is part of
BAR International Series (2008), Vol. 1832, p. 161-173
ISBN source
9781407303161
hdl
1887/13203