Key elements of the prothesis:
Body Preparation: The deceased individual's body would be washed and anointed with fragrant oils. In some cases, embalming techniques might have been used, depending on the time and region.
Laying in State: The prepared body would then be laid out on a bed or bier, typically with the face uncovered to allow mourners to pay their final respects.
Offerings and Garments: Offerings such as flowers, fruits, and libations were placed near the body as symbols of respect and remembrance. Additionally, the deceased might be dressed in fine garments or symbols of their social status or achievements.
Lamentations: During the prothesis, mourners would express their grief through lamentations, weeping, and ritualized expressions of sorrow. Dirges and funeral songs might be sung, and professional mourners could even be hired to accentuate the emotional atmosphere.
Mourning Rituals: Relatives and close friends would keep vigil by the body throughout the night, a custom known as "threne." They would take turns recounting the virtues, accomplishments, and notable traits of the deceased, emphasizing the loss and the void left behind.
The Importance of Ritual: The prothesis ceremony served multiple purposes in ancient Greek society. It allowed the living to express their grief and mourn the deceased's passing. It also facilitated the concept of closure and the transition of the deceased into the afterlife, helping the community come to terms with the loss.
Furthermore, the prothesis reflected the deep emotional, social, and religious beliefs of the ancient Greeks, underscoring the significance of honoring the dead with dignity and respect. It was considered an essential rite that needed to be performed before the subsequent stages of the funeral process.