Thesis (M.A.) from the year 2007 in the subject Archaeology, grade: 63%,
University of Leicester, language: English, abstract: Only recently has
the study of ochre use in mortuary contexts by prehistoric groups taken
a key place in archaeological research. Most often, this research has
primarily taken the form of debates over ochre's purpose and
significance among these people. To date, no study has researched the
extent of Pre-Contact mortuary ochre use in North America or the
cultural characteristics common among its practitioners. This study
seeks to establish patterns of commonality based on a comparison of ten
North American prehistoric groups whose mortuary ochre use is
well-documented. Using a criterion of eight cultural traits that are
common indicators of cultural complexity, the study examines the
hypothesis that the use of ochre in burials was more commonly found in
complex societies. The results, although inconclusive in determining the
viability of the hypothesis, indicate patterns of cultural commonality
and help to define the spatial and temporal distribution of those groups
who used ochre in mortuary contexts.