Funeral Service Practice Exam

What were the Ancient Roman embalmers known as?

1. Mortuary workers

2. Libitinarii

3. Pollinctores

4. Embalmers

The correct answer is: Pollinctores

The term used for Ancient Roman embalmers is "Pollinctores." These individuals were specifically responsible for the preparation of the body for burial, which included the process of embalming. The practice of embalming in Ancient Rome was often linked to preserving the body for a longer duration before burial, reflecting the cultural importance of funerary rites and the afterlife. The Pollinctores employed a variety of techniques and substances to prepare bodies, which may have included the use of oils and resins. This role was distinct within the larger context of funeral services in Ancient Rome and is historically significant as it highlights the specialized nature of body preparation in that society. Understanding the specific terminology, such as Pollinctores, offers insight into the practices and reverence for the dead in Ancient Roman culture, pointing to a more sophisticated approach to mortuary practices than what might be implied by the broader terms like mortuary workers or embalmers.