Monumental function in British Neolithic burial practices

Abstract

Abstract The basic contention of this paper is that the monumental mound aspect is not invariable in Neolithic chambered tombs, and that its function is not identical with that of the burial area proper. An assignment of linked roles for components within a planned long‐term concept is substituted for a multi‐period explanation. The fundamental identity of megalithic and non‐megalithic practice is emphasized, and a context provided for the emergence of chamber burial in Neolithic societies.