9th February 2007, 09:50 AM
I think there are two entirely separate questions here, both of which need to be fully considered.
Firstly, it is important to treat the dead with respect, so we need to excavate burials in a way that achieves that aim. This would not, by itself, imply high archaeological standards - just respectful treatment of the remains. Period is only relevant here in relation to the likelihood of there being known living relatives who might be upset by what we are doing.
Secondly, we need to consider archaeological technique in relation to the nature, quality and quantity of archaeological information to be gained from this particular burial or cemetery. That might vary quite a lot, depending on period, context, condition of the bone, likelihood of grave goods or grave furniture, previous disturbance, etc.
On that basis, it is true to say that we should always be respectful - human remains are not the same as any other portable find. However, it is not true to say that being respectful means that we should always treat every burial in the same way.
1man1desk
to let, fully furnished
Firstly, it is important to treat the dead with respect, so we need to excavate burials in a way that achieves that aim. This would not, by itself, imply high archaeological standards - just respectful treatment of the remains. Period is only relevant here in relation to the likelihood of there being known living relatives who might be upset by what we are doing.
Secondly, we need to consider archaeological technique in relation to the nature, quality and quantity of archaeological information to be gained from this particular burial or cemetery. That might vary quite a lot, depending on period, context, condition of the bone, likelihood of grave goods or grave furniture, previous disturbance, etc.
On that basis, it is true to say that we should always be respectful - human remains are not the same as any other portable find. However, it is not true to say that being respectful means that we should always treat every burial in the same way.
1man1desk
to let, fully furnished