Epitaph

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/epitaph

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the functional spectrum?Encompasses remembrance, historical documentation, memento mori, and personal expression of character
2. Why do people write words on tombstones?People write words on tombstones to remember the person and share their story with others. It keeps their memory alive for future generations.
3. How did epitaphs change over time?Long ago, epitaphs were simple and just listed names and dates. In the Renaissance, they grew longer and added details about family, work, and virtues, often in Latin.

Antiquity: The ancient past, especially the period of classical Greek and Roman civilizations.
Memento Mori: A Latin phrase meaning 'remember you must die,' referring to an object or practice that reminds one of mortality.
Ostentatious: Characterized by vulgar or pretentious display; designed to impress or attract notice.