Taphonomic Approach to the Re-Analysis of the Human Remains from the Neolithic Chamber Tomb of Quanterness, Orkney

"Megalithic tombs in Orkney have yielded some of the largest volumes of human remains in Neolithic Britain -- a significant resource. However, discrete skeletons are lacking, the researcher often presented with formidable volumes of disarticulated and comingled remains. Themes of transformation, fragmentation and manipulation of the body permeate the literature, conferring on the megalithic structures significance as places of transition. Previously, the inherent complexity of the remains has made them an unattractive proposition for detailed study. However, advances in taphonomic analysis mean [that] techniques now exist for approaching such complex assemblages. A study has now been successfully carried out on the Orcadian remains, uncovering a wealth of new data. This data, presented here, draws attention to subtle variations in funerary ritual between and within the tombs, and pushes for a dramatic reconsideration of our current understanding of the practices and cosmologies associated with these enigmatic structures."--Back cover (page 4 of cover).

"The primary site investigated is the Maeshowe-type tomb of Quanterness on Mainland, Orkney. In order to further contextualise the results obtained from the analysis, four further assemblages -- Quoyness, Sanday; Cuween Hill, Mainland; Pierowall Quarry, Westray; Point of Cott, Westray -- and a sample from a fifth, Isbister, South Ronaldsay, are also examined."--From Abstract, page xviii.