Funeral Service Practice Exam

How would you characterize Early Colonial funerals in New England?

1. elaborate

2. lavish

3. simple

4. ritualistic

The correct answer is: simple

Early Colonial funerals in New England are characterized as simple due to the cultural, religious, and practical influences of the time. The Puritan settlers, who predominated in New England, held a belief system that emphasized modesty and humility. This was reflected in their funerals, which focused more on the spiritual journey of the deceased rather than extravagant displays of wealth or elaborate ceremonies. Additionally, the community's agricultural lifestyle and limited resources meant that families often opted for straightforward burial practices, which included simple wooden coffins or even burial shrouds. The emphasis was on practicality and the moral values of the time rather than on elaborate ceremonies or lavish displays. Funerals served as a time for reflection and mourning, but they were conducted with restraint, aligning with the Puritan ethos of simplicity. In this context, the nature of funerals reflected broader societal values and available resources, making simplicity a defining characteristic of Early Colonial funerals in New England.