Overview

James Crissman explores cultural traits related to death and dying in Appalachian sections of Tennessee, Virginia, Kentucky, North Carolina, and West Virginia, showing how they have changed since the 1600s. Relying on archival materials, almost forty photographs, and interviews with more than 400 mountain dwellers, Crissman focuses on the importance of family and ""neighborliness"" in mountain society.      Written for both scholarly and general audiences, the book contains sections on the death watch, body preparation, selection or construction of a coffin or casket, digging the grave by hand, the wake, the funeral, and other topics. Crissman then demonstrates how technology and the encroachment of American society have turned these vital traditions into the disappearing practices of the past.  

Full Product Details

9780252063558

Table of Contents

Reviews

"""An engrossing examination of death and funeral beliefs and customs in one American region, but also of their background in older cultures.""--Loyal Jones, former director of the Berea College Appalachian Center"

An engrossing examination of death and funeral beliefs and customs in one American region ... [as well as] their background in older cultures. -- Loyal Jones, past director of the Berea College Appalachian Center

Author Information

Tab Content 6

Countries Available