La morte dell’animale d'affezione nel mondo romano tra convenzione, ritualità e sentimento: un'indagine «zooepigrafica»

Clara Stevanato

Abstract:

A particular category of Latin inscriptions includes funerary epitaphs addressed to animals, especially dogs and horses. These inscriptions often have been ignored by scholars but they provide a considerable amount of interesting information. The main aspects investigated in this study concern the funerary practices adopted for animal burials and the bond of affection that emerges from the epigraphic message. There is almost no difference between human and animal funerals and the inscription is permeated by affection and emotions. The premise is that the relationship between humans and their pets was seen in terms of continuity after death.