What is the history of obituaries?

The origins of obituaries, or notices of a person's death, can be traced back to ancient Rome. These early obituaries were often inscribed on tombstones or other memorials and were used to honor the deceased and provide information about their lives.

In the Middle Ages, obituaries were typically written by monks or other religious officials and were often included in religious texts. These obituaries were used to commemorate the lives of important figures and to provide spiritual guidance for the living.

With the advent of the printing press, obituaries began to be published in newspapers. This made it possible for a wider audience to learn about a person's death and to read about their life. Over time, obituaries became a regular feature of newspapers and were used to not only inform the public about deaths, but also to pay tribute to the deceased.

Today, obituaries are still commonly published in newspapers, but they can also be found online. Many newspapers have created dedicated websites for obituaries, and social media has also made it easier for people to share obituaries with a wider audience. Despite the many changes in how obituaries are written and shared, their purpose remains the same: to remember and honor the lives of those who have passed away.