Historical Society: Historical aspects from local churches

Professor Gregory Stores on: ‘Commemoration of the Deceased. Historical Aspects from Local Churches including Dorchester Abbey

Commemorating the deceased in different ways and for various reasons seems to be a long-established practice. However, the archaeological evidence for earliest times is difficult to decipher. By contrast, in the medieval period commemorative practices closely reflected the theology of the Catholic Church.

Following an outline of early burial and possible commemorative aspects, this illustrated lecture will focus on the Late Medieval Period especially the pre-Reformation Catholic beliefs and practices, which changed significantly as a result of the English Reformation.

The contrast between pre- and post-Reformation commemoration of the deceased will be discussed with reference to tombs and monuments in Dorchester Abbey and other local churches.

Professor Stores is a physician and academic whose hobbies include life in the Middle Ages about which he lectures widely to Local History groups and branches of the University of the Third Age (U3A). In conjunction with colleagues in the village, he also conducts tours of Dorchester Abbey for visiting historical societies.

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