Includes bibliographical references (pages [117] - 135).
Contents:
1. Introduction -- 2. The Near East -- 3. Egypt -- 4. China -- 5. Northern Europe -- 6. Mesoamerica -- 7. Conclusion -- Appendix: Possible Cases of Human Sacrifice from Other Periods and Areas Around the World -- Bibliography.
Summary:
Sacrifice is not simply an expression of religious beliefs. Its highly symbolic nature lends itself to various kinds of manipulation by those carrying it out, who may use the ritual in maintaining and negotiating power and identity in carefully staged 'performances'. This Element will examine some of the many different types of sacrifice and ritual killing of human beings through history, from Bronze Age China and the Near East through Mesoameria to Northern Europe. The focus is on the archaeology of human sacrifice, but where avaialble, textual and iconographic sources provide valuable complements to the interpretation of the material--back cover.
Series:
Cambridge elements. Elements in religion and violence
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.