The history of the funeral industry is fascinating. It tells the story of how each society over the centuries has dealt with the inescapable reality of death. From Antiquity to the present day, death-related professions have evolved, adapting to beliefs, traditions and scientific advances. From thanatopraxy to university research, the body of the deceased is always at the center of preoccupations. Let’s take you on a journey through time! From ancestral funeral practices to medieval rites In ancient times, funeral rites were of great importance. They provided a link between the world of the living and that of the dead. The body of the deceased was treated with respect, and…

Becoming a death professional may not come to mind when you’re asked what your dream job is. Yet the funeral industry offers many exciting and rewarding career opportunities, which go far beyond simply managing funerals. The Death Chronicles team invites you to discover the different facets of this little-known sector and how you can make your mark. Little-known professions in the funeral industry When you think of jobs in the funeral industry, the first that springs to mind is undoubtedly that of funeral director. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. The funeral industry offers a multitude of professions, each with its own specificities and requirements. These include thanatopractor,…

In a context where death is often taboo, invisible and professionalized, the funeral professions demand great emotional strength. Faced with death on a daily basis, these professionals have developed mechanisms for managing the emotions associated with their work. In this latest Death Chronicles article, we tackle this complex issue, while highlighting the crucial role these professions play in our society. Death: a difficult professional reality Death is not just an abstract notion for funeral professionals: it’s an integral part of their daily work. They are confronted with the raw reality of death, and the emotional distress of the deceased’s loved ones. They have to learn to deal with these delicate…