This chapter explores the multifaceted roles of human remains and other physical objects as relics, examining their cultural, religious, and political significance across various contexts. It draws on Gillingham’s and Knight’s definitions of relics as objects imbued with charismatic power, capable of inspiring veneration, solidifying group identities, and sometimes even performing miraculous acts. The chapter begins by discussing the Christian tradition, where human remains were transformed into sacred relics, often stored in elaborate reliquaries to preserve their spiritual power and foster connections between the living and the dead. It examines the processes of authentication, veneration, and the complex rituals surrounding the use of these relics within Christian worship. Expanding beyond religious contexts, the chapter also investigates secular and nationalistic relics. One key example is the contested remains of Mexico’s “niños héroes” (cadet heroes), which were recontextualized in the twentieth century to serve as national symbols of sacrifice and patriotism, despite the uncertainties surrounding their historical authenticity. This case illustrates how material remains can be manipulated to forge and legitimize national identities. Scientific relics and personal relics are also discussed, showing how human remains can serve as poignant links between the living and the deceased. Finally, the concept of war trophies is explored, with a focus on the leg of Mexican General Santa Anna, highlighting how human body parts are transformed into symbols of conquest, memory, and identity. Ultimately, the chapter underscores the enduring powerPower of relics to shape cultural, political, and emotional relationships across time and spaceSpace.

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Relics and Reliquaries

  • Anna Osterholtz

摘要

This chapter explores the multifaceted roles of human remains and other physical objects as relics, examining their cultural, religious, and political significance across various contexts. It draws on Gillingham’s and Knight’s definitions of relics as objects imbued with charismatic power, capable of inspiring veneration, solidifying group identities, and sometimes even performing miraculous acts. The chapter begins by discussing the Christian tradition, where human remains were transformed into sacred relics, often stored in elaborate reliquaries to preserve their spiritual power and foster connections between the living and the dead. It examines the processes of authentication, veneration, and the complex rituals surrounding the use of these relics within Christian worship. Expanding beyond religious contexts, the chapter also investigates secular and nationalistic relics. One key example is the contested remains of Mexico’s “niños héroes” (cadet heroes), which were recontextualized in the twentieth century to serve as national symbols of sacrifice and patriotism, despite the uncertainties surrounding their historical authenticity. This case illustrates how material remains can be manipulated to forge and legitimize national identities. Scientific relics and personal relics are also discussed, showing how human remains can serve as poignant links between the living and the deceased. Finally, the concept of war trophies is explored, with a focus on the leg of Mexican General Santa Anna, highlighting how human body parts are transformed into symbols of conquest, memory, and identity. Ultimately, the chapter underscores the enduring powerPower of relics to shape cultural, political, and emotional relationships across time and spaceSpace.