Who Gets Buried with a Bear? The Inclusion of Wild Animals in the Cremation Rite of Eastern England and Northern Germany (Fourth to Eighth Century CE)

Cremation was the dominant mortuary practice amongst Germanic groups on the European continent before the coming of Christianity. Likewise, it was also a prominent rite in early medieval England (fifth to seventh centuries CE), particularly so in the eastern counties. One of the most distinctive aspects of this funerary tradition was the provision of both domesticated and wild animal offerings. Bear phalanges are found in a number of cremation burials in both regions. In this research, we explore the association between bear bones and the biological attributes (namely age and sex) of the deceased, as well as relationships with pyre- and grave-goods on a site and inter-site level. Other wild animals that have been identified from these burials are also examined, particularly with regards to the reason(s) for selecting specific species. Finally, we consider the origin of this burial rite, the sources of these animals, and what they can tell us about identity and affiliation of the dead.