Mehr als das Mahl selbst. Zur sozialen Bedeutung von Speisen im Bestattungskontext

Abstract

This paper discusses food in the context of burials, and the giving of meat and of possible beverages in particular. It focuses on the social meaning of both the funeral ritual and the objects involved. In particular, the transformation of the social identity of the deceased through ritual action is examined. Building upon the concepts "gift" (MAUSS) and "communicative practice" (HABERMAS) nutritional offerings in the graves are understood as artefacts which at the same time characterise the social identity of the deceased and help in transforming this identity, rather than simply indicating social Status. This approach is exemplified with evidence from an urnfield of the Lusatian Culture from Brandenburg (Germany).