Introduction
The study of tombstone styles in cemeteries with long burial histories offers a unique window into a deeper understanding of the passage of time. The dynamic religious, cultural, and social trends of the past become apparent through Deetz’s proposed methods. By breaking down individual styles and creating a seriation diagram, it is possible to gain a visual representation of these features’ development and draw parallels to the changes that American society faced.
Seriation Diagrams Utilization
The seriation diagram itself is a valuable analytical tool in historical archaeology. It is cited and discussed in James Deetz’s book In Small Things Forgotten (93). This approach is a dating method used to arrange artifacts and features in chronological sequence. It helps understand the relative chronology of all finds, especially when radiocarbon analysis or clear date indicators are unavailable. The usefulness of seriation for archaeology is also discussed separately – it is based on the principle of stylistic change over a period.
In addition, it is also essential for the historical approach, with the possibility of identifying cultural phases, contextual interpretation, or assistance in the case of dating uncertainty. Specific periods in the history of an object may demonstrate the introduction, abolition, or development of particular styles or practices (Deetz). Thus, seriation charts are a fundamental tool for organizing and understanding the temporal aspects of archaeological assemblages.
Study Results Discussion
The work was carried out to analyze and study the stylistics of the tombstones at [Name and location of the cemetery], following the methods defined in the assignment and the book. A diagram was constructed based on observations of more than a hundred samples, which were categorized into ten groups by decade from 1865-1875 to 1955-1965 (Fig. 1). Three style categories, Necklace, Willow Symbolism, Cross, and Vine, were also identified for analysis and chosen based on the most distinctive stylistic elements. The calculated percentage has been rounded for better understanding, and the seriality chart can be further summarized in Table 1.
Table 1. Seriation Interpretation.
Trends Reflection
According to the observations, it is possible to correlate the frequency changes in different categories of cultural manifestation that may have caused their dynamics. For example, a change in cultural beliefs can be seen in the shift from necklaces and the most outdated symbolism of willow to the cross. It may denote possible fluctuations in the relevant period relevant to religious customs of grave design (Deetz 96).
Cultural trends can be seen in the manifestation of the withdrawal of the dominance of willow symbolism by the middle of the twentieth century, namely by the 1950s. In addition, the manifestation of the more difficult-to-execute vine can be associated with a period of artistic experimentation and increased involvement in the arts.
Economic factors also play a role in the trends, as cheaper materials and more straightforward execution in times of great depression and crisis are embodied in the observed patterns. The historical context, on the other hand, considers the Second World War. During this time, and after its completion in the cemetery in question, the symbolic image of the willow tree ceased to exist. The necklace’s symbol is found in its reflection in the form of a figurative union of soul and body. It became extremely popular afterward, resonating in Christianity and possessing a more straightforward execution.
Conclusion
The study of tombstone styles in old cemeteries offers an interesting opportunity to analyze trends of historical change. The frequency displayed in the chart denotes a complex interplay of cultural, religious, and historical factors. Continued research and contextual analysis of specific cases will allow a more complete understanding of the individual influences behind stylistic shifts.
Work Cited
Deetz, James. In Small Things Forgotten: An Archaeology of Early American Life. Expanded and Revised Edition. Random House, 1996.