Memory and Funeral Rites in Medieval Feudal Society

"Memory and Funeral Rites in Medieval Feudal Society" by Ryan Evans explores the intricate and symbolic relationship between death, memory, and social status in medieval Europe. Through a deep analysis of funeral rituals, this book examines how the Church, feudal hierarchy, and family lineage intersected in shaping how the deceased were remembered. Focusing on both the grand ceremonies of the nobility and the simpler rites of the common folk, it delves into the evolution of these practices from the early medieval period to the late Middle Ages.
By highlighting the spiritual, social, and political dimensions of death, the book reveals how funeral rites served as a means of asserting power, preserving legacies, and navigating the afterlife. Through primary sources, historical analysis, and artistic representations, the book uncovers how medieval funeral customs still resonate in contemporary memorial practices, offering profound insights into the medieval worldview.