This week I wanted to explore something that was briefly mentioned in class - Ophelia's suicide and burial. I found a great article written by Rocellus Guernsey in 1885 called "Ecclesiastical Law in Hamlet: The Burial of Ophelia". He discusses types of suicide burials, canon law, text in Hamlet, religious scripture etc. which help illuminate the time in which Shakespeare was living. Guernsey devotes a large portion of the paper to the explanation and illustration of the actual ritual of the funeral procession and burial. Fascinating read - hope this is helpful!
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