A taphonomic approach to the re-analysis of the human remains from the Neolithic chamber tomb of Quanterness, Orkney

Megalithic tombs in Orkney have yielded some of the largest volumes
of human remains in Neolithic Britain. However, discrete skeletons
are lacking; the researcher is often presented with formidable volumes
of disarticulated and comingled remains. Themes of transformation,
fragmentation and manipulation of the body permeate the literature,
conferring on the megalithic structures significance as places of transition.
Previously, the inherent complexity of the remains has made them
an unattractive proposition for detailed study. However, advances in
taphonomic analysis mean that techniques now exist for approaching such
complex assemblages. A study has now been successfully carried out on
the Orcadian remains, uncovering the wealth of new data presented in this
volume. This data draws attention to subtle variations in funerary ritual
between and within the tombs, and pushes for a dramatic reconsideration of
our current understanding of the practices and cosmologies associated with
these enigmatic structures.