Tales from the grave : funerary ritual and attitudes towards death in eighteenth-century Malta

Abstract

This dissertation aims at employing a multileveled analysis to discern various attitudes towards death present in the different social classes of eighteenth-century Malta. The themes discussed transpire from various documents available at the National Library of Malta and the Notarial Archives, both in Valletta, together with the Cathedral Archives in Mdina. The first chapter aims at laying down the basic theoretical corpus within which to place the whole study, whilst delineating specific historiographical developments which aim to justify the approach taken throughout the work. The second chapter aims at analysing ritual through the social group which emphasized it most and utilized it best, the Order of St. John. It structurally paces the 'path of Thanatos' which an individual had to walk; from the last will and testament to extreme unction followed by death and post mortuary practices, such as the funeral mass and procession, provisional burial and finally, ultimate and permanent interment. The third chapter delves into the themes of status, hierarchy and power of the Church and related institutions that in eighteenth century Malta were continuously engaged in the labor of representing their greatness and continuity. The fourth chapter takes a somewhat different perspective, dealing with the underlying discriminating quality of death. Analyzing wills, it also delves into such themes as death-related folk customs of the lower classes and the role of Confraternities in funerals. The last chapter is an attempt at understanding how Grand Masters and the higher echelons of the Order exploited funerary monuments and their peculiar symbolism to embed their power in tradition, express the vigor of the institution and ensure continuity.