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The discovery of the body in 1952 at the Windeby estate in Northern Germany marked a significant moment in archaeological history. The body, initially thought to be that of a 14-year-old girl, was found during peat cutting activities on the estate. However, the machinery had already caused damage to the body, severing a leg, a foot, and a hand. This prompted an immediate halt to the work in order to investigate the find further.
Initial State of the Body
Upon the discovery of the body, certain parts such as the hand and hair were remarkably well-preserved by the bog.
The brain was found to have retained its size and shape, while the chest had decayed, revealing visible ribs.
The presence of a blindfold over the eyes, a shaved head, and a leather collar around the neck led to the assumption that the body belonged to a girl due to its long hair and small frame.
Cause of Death
Various theories emerged regarding the possible cause of Windeby's death.
Initially, it was suggested that she may have been killed as a punishment for adultery, based on the circumstances of her discovery.
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However, further investigation revealed another body, presumed to be her partner, located nearby. Carbon dating later disproved this theory, indicating that Windeby died in the first century AD, while her supposed partner lived three centuries earlier. The absence of trauma or signs of struggle on the body led to the proposal that her death may have been part of a sacrificial ritual.
Subsequent Discoveries: Windeby Girl Revealed as a Boy
In 1970, biological anthropologist Heather Gill-Robinson examined the body's skeleton and suggested that Windeby may actually be a boy.
It wasn't until 2007, after DNA testing conducted by a professor from North Dakota State University, that it was confirmed the body was male.
The DNA and bone analysis indicated that the boy may have suffered from malnourishment and frequent illnesses during his lifetime. This new information led to the hypothesis that his death could have been due to natural causes, with the blindfold potentially serving a symbolic purpose or simply as a hair band that slipped down over time. The partially shaved head was attributed to either careless excavation practices or natural decay.
Further Analysis and Interpretation
Despite the advancements in technology and scientific methods, there are still unanswered questions surrounding Windeby's identity and the circumstances of his death. The presence of the blindfold and leather collar continues to intrigue researchers, prompting discussions about their significance in the context of ancient rituals or beliefs. The discrepancy between the initial assumption of Windeby being a girl and the later confirmation of his male identity raises questions about the reliability of archaeological interpretations and the importance of ongoing research and reevaluation.
Impact of Windeby Discovery
The discovery of the Windeby body has had a lasting impact on the field of archaeology, shedding light on ancient burial practices, gender roles, and societal norms. It serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in interpreting historical artifacts and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in unraveling the mysteries of the past. The case of Windeby Boy/Girl continues to spark interest and debate among scholars and the general public, highlighting the enduring fascination with uncovering the secrets of our ancestors.
1952 Windeby Estate Peat Cutting Unearths Ancient Body. (2016, Nov 04). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/windeby-girl-essay
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