Letter: Epitaphs ancient and modern
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: Pace James Fergusson's comments ('Debate that has lasted for centuries', 10 August), the older the epitaph in some areas, the more idiosyncratic. How would a vicar nowadays feel about a 20-liner which praised the entombed banker for charging a low rate of interest? Or praised the man's love of the organ? Or, best of all, is virtually a 'Wanted' poster for the murderer of an unfortunate deacon:
Here lies Bobolenus, a goodly deacon,
snatched away by dark death whilst he slept.
An enemy, lurking in an unseen hiding place,
struck him on the head, killing him by deceit.
Tell me, what good did this terrible deed do you, wicked man?
He lives in God, you die for ever.
He deserves the glory of martyrdom, you the fate of a brigand;
he wins the palm, but punishment awaits you.
For these, and other interesting inscribed epitaphs, your readers might wish to dip into the writings of Venantius Fortunatus, the sixth-century Gallic writer.
Yours faithfully,
J. W. GEORGE
Edinburgh
10 August
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments