Dark Vocations 10 – Funeral Directors
The role of funeral directors has a long and complex history, deeply intertwined with the cultural and social practices of death and mourning. The profession, known by various names and forms throughout the centuries, has evolved significantly, reflecting the changing attitudes towards death and the afterlife.
In ancient civilisations, such as Egypt, specialised priests played the role of funeral directors, dedicating up to 70 days to prepare deceased royalty and nobility for their journey to the afterlife. This meticulous process involved elaborate rituals and mummification, highlighting the reverence and significance placed on the transition from life to death.
The profession’s dark reputation, often associated with the handling of the dead, can be traced back to its early days. In medieval Britain, the term ‘undertaker’ was used for anyone who undertook a task, including funerals. Over time, as the role became more specialised, the term was exclusively used for those managing funerals, distancing itself from other trades.
The transition from ‘undertaker’ to ‘funeral director’ signifies a shift in responsibilities. The British Undertakers’ Association, established in 1905, eventually became the National Association of Funeral Directors, reflecting the broader scope of the role beyond just preparing the body for burial.
The two World Wars marked a significant period for funeral directors, as they adapted to the mass casualties and the emotional toll on society. The introduction of embalming in the UK during this time changed the profession, allowing for better preservation and viewings of the deceased.
Modern funeral directors are custodians of the body, overseeing every aspect of the funeral service, from care and preparation to the actual ceremony. This evolution mirrors societal changes in how we care for the living and the dead, with deaths occurring more frequently in institutions rather than at home, and the body often resting in a chapel of rest instead of the family home.
The history of funeral directors is not without its darker chapters. In Victorian times, undertakers were often viewed with suspicion and negativity, a sentiment that has persisted in some form even today. This perception stems from the intimate and sometimes misunderstood nature of their work, dealing with the deceased and the grieving process.
As we reflect on the history of funeral directors, it’s clear that their role has been shaped by the needs and customs of the times. From the ancient embalmers of Egypt to the modern professionals who provide comfort and support to the bereaved, funeral directors have always played a vital part in society’s handling of death, honouring the departed and aiding the living in their time of loss.
The profession continues to evolve, with funeral directors now embracing new technologies and practices to better serve families and honour the wishes of the deceased. As society’s relationship with death and mourning continues to change, so too will the role of the funeral director, ensuring that each individual’s final farewell is as unique as was their life.
The Chilling Role of Funeral Directors in Horror Literature
The figure of the funeral director has long been a staple in horror literature, often serving as a bridge between the living and the dead. These characters are typically portrayed as solemn and mysterious, guardians of the last rites and keepers of the final passage. In horror narratives, funeral directors often take on a more sinister role, becoming symbols of death and the macabre.
In many horror stories, the funeral director’s knowledge of death rituals and their close association with the deceased provide a unique perspective on the afterlife and the supernatural. They are sometimes depicted as having a deeper understanding of the mysteries of death, which can be both a source of wisdom and a foreboding presence within a story.
The occupation itself, dealing intimately with death, lends a natural eeriness that horror writers have been keen to explore. The funeral director character can be a neutral figure, simply doing their job amidst the unfolding terror, or they can be a more active participant in the horror, using their position to manipulate events from behind the scenes.
Books like “Casket Cache” and “The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy” are examples where funeral directors play central roles in the narrative, adding a layer of authenticity and morbidity to the plot. These characters often challenge readers’ perceptions, blurring the lines between the living and the dead, and between comforter and harbinger.
The portrayal of funeral directors in horror literature also reflects societal attitudes towards death and the people who work closely with it. While some stories aim to demystify the role and present funeral directors as empathetic and misunderstood, others play on the fear of the unknown and the unease that death can bring.
The funeral director’s role in horror literature is not just about adding a spooky element to the story; it’s also about confronting the reader with the inevitability of death. Through these characters, authors can explore themes of mortality, grief, and the human condition, making funeral directors an integral part of the horror genre’s exploration of the darker aspects of life.
In conclusion, funeral directors in horror literature serve as a fascinating focal point for storytelling. They are characters that evoke curiosity, fear, and introspection, making them perfect for the genre. Whether they are portrayed as compassionate professionals or ominous figures, they remain a compelling representation of our complex relationship with death.
© Colin Lawson Books