BUSH BARROW Meaning and
Definition
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Bush Barrow is an archaeological site located in Wiltshire, England. It is regarded as one of the most significant Bronze Age burial mounds in the region. The name "Bush Barrow" refers specifically to the burial mound found at this site.
A bush barrow is a burial mound constructed during the Bronze Age. It typically consists of a circular or oval-shaped earthen mound with a central grave chamber. The mound is often surrounded by a ditch or circular enclosure. The purpose of the barrow was to provide a final resting place for the deceased and to serve as a memorial or marker for future generations.
The Bush Barrow burial mound, in particular, gained fame due to its rich archaeological discoveries. Excavations carried out in the mid-19th century revealed a burial chamber containing an elaborate assemblage of funerary objects. These included a gold lozenge, a stone mace head, bronze daggers, amber beads, and a boar's tusk helmet. These artifacts suggest that the individual buried within the barrow was of high status or importance.
The bush barrow is significant because it provides valuable insights into the religious and social practices of the Bronze Age people. It demonstrates their belief in the afterlife, as well as their craftsmanship and skills in metalworking and jewelry making. Furthermore, the grave goods found within the barrow shed light on the economic and cultural connections of the period. The Bush Barrow serves as a testament to the rich heritage and archaeological wonders of ancient Britain.
Etymology of BUSH BARROW
The word "bush" in "Bush Barrow" is no longer used in its literal sense, but instead, it refers to a type of vegetation. The term "bush" can be traced back to the Old English word "bysceop", which meant "scrubland" or "low-growing shrubs". Over time, the word evolved and became "busc" in Middle English before eventually turning into "bush" in Modern English.
The word "barrow" has its roots in Old English as well. It originally stemmed from the Old English word "beorg", which meant "hill" or "mound". In the context of "Bush Barrow", it refers to a burial mound, specifically a tumulus. Tumuli were often used to bury important or wealthy individuals in ancient times.
