Degree Name

MALS (Master of Arts in Liberal Studies)

Program

Liberal Studies

Date of Award

12-2004

Committee Chair or Co-Chairs

Michael R. Pinner

Committee Members

Marie Tedesco, Theresa A. Lloyd

Abstract

This study was conducted in an attempt to determine whether certain burial practices are unique to the people of Southern Appalachia. Eight individuals were interviewed, including a minister and a funeral director. As a result of the research, it was found that, although a strong sense of community and religion still prevails, making certain burial rituals distinctive to the people of Southern Appalachia, they are slowly eroding due to the growing presence of the modern American funeral industry.

Qualitative research methods were used to analyze a segment of the Southern Appalachian population, with literature reviews of related material and in-depth interviews conducted with subjects in Grainger, Hamblen and Hancock Counties of East Tennessee.

Document Type

Thesis - unrestricted

Copyright

Copyright by the authors.

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