Defining the Situation: Reflection of Life Styles in Funeral Eulogies

Abstract

The nature of funeral orations was analyzed. Based on participant observation of over 100 funeral services in central Pennsylvania the nature of the variables which condition eulogies was assessed and two orientations outlined. For those individuals who were seen as the victims of life or who lacked an element of control over their own life-situation, death was treated as a release, which enabled them to realize their true potential. For the group who experienced a modicum of control and success in their lives, death was viewed as unfortunate fate. For both groups conceptions of the afterlife included the most salient desires and frustrations of the earthly life as well as a continuation of the personal integrity of the deceased.

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