Death while traveling in the 16th century -- what happens to the body?

Barb D · May 10, 2009

It's the 16th century. You're traveling in Europe, on your way home but still over 1,000 miles to go. It's autumn. One of your group dies. He's a noble.

What do you do with his body? Bury it in the town where he died? Take it home? Something else?

pdr · May 10, 2009

In the ...

17thC it was usual to bury the body in the nearest suitable church graveyard.

As Christians believed in the 'Resurrection of the Body' it was not possible to burn a body and carry ashes. There are reports of VIPs sometimes being pickled in alcohol, (even as late as Admiral Nelson) salted down or preserved in some way. But even with your noble it might not be practical and family and rellies might have to rush into the area for a funeral!

Barb D · May 10, 2009

Thanks! I knew I could count on you, pdr!

cooeedownunder · May 11, 2009

pdr said:
17thC it was usual to bury the body in the nearest suitable church graveyard.

As Christians believed in the 'Resurrection of the Body' it was not possible to burn a body and carry ashes. There are reports of VIPs sometimes being pickled in alcohol, (even as late as Admiral Nelson) salted down or preserved in some way. But even with your noble it might not be practical and family and rellies might have to rush into the area for a funeral!

Last year, my uncle was the first family member as long as we are aware to be cremmated. We are Catholics.

Captain Scarf · May 11, 2009

If your work is set after the reformation then you might have some difficulty with denominational issues. A Catholic priest might refuse to have a Protestant buried in their church yard and vis versa.

Death while traveling in the 16th century -- what happens to the body?

Barb D

pdr

Barb D

cooeedownunder

Grateful for the day

Captain Scarf

Smart-casual Ninja