TOLLUND MAN Meaning and
Definition
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Tollund Man refers to the remarkably well-preserved bog body discovered in 1950 in the peat bog of Bjældskovdal, Denmark. The Tollund Man, also known as the Tollund Man of Silkeborg, is a prime example of a bog body, which is a human corpse that has been naturally preserved in a peat bog due to the unique conditions of the environment.
Dating back to the Iron Age, specifically to around 400 BCE, Tollund Man offers invaluable insights into the culture and lifestyle of this ancient period. The body, remarkably intact, has been remarkably preserved due to the anaerobic, acidic, and waterlogged environment of the bog, which slowed down decomposition and mineralized the soft tissues.
Tollund Man was discovered with a noose around his neck, indicating that he died by hanging, presumably as a form of sacrificial execution. This led archaeologists and researchers to speculate that the Tollund Man was possibly a victim of a ritualistic sacrifice performed by the ancient people as an offering to the gods. The find has allowed historians to gain a deeper understanding of religious practices and societal customs during the Iron Age.
Since its discovery, the well-preserved Tollund Man has been extensively researched and has provided valuable information about clothing, tools, and physical appearance of people from that era. The body is now exhibited at the Silkeborg Museum in Denmark, where it serves as a remarkable historical artifact and a testament to the ancient human presence in the region.
Etymology of TOLLUND MAN
The word "Tollund Man" derives from the name of the location where the well-preserved bog body was discovered. The Tollund Man is an Iron Age bog body found in 1950 near the village of Tollund, Denmark. The naming convention for bog bodies often involves using the name of the discovery site, followed by "man" or "woman". In this case, the name "Tollund Man" simply refers to the man found in the Tollund bog.
