Which civilization is noted for having the most influence on modern Western world funeral customs?

The civilization that is noted for having the most influence on modern Western world funeral customs is the Romans. This influence stems from their significant advancements in the methods of burial and funeral rites, which were meticulously designed to honor the deceased while reflecting societal status and beliefs about the afterlife.

The Romans introduced concepts such as cremation and elaborate burial practices. They had public funerals, known as "funera," which were highly ceremonial and involved various customs, including eulogies and processions. Their practices also emphasized the importance of commemorating the dead, leading to the construction of elaborate tombs, which can still be observed today.

The legal and social structures set by the Romans surrounding death and inheritance, along with their various customs such as the use of funeral masks and monuments, have been integral in shaping the way modern societies handle death. Elements like the public display of grief and memorialization found in contemporary funerals can trace their lineage back to Roman customs.

While the Greeks and Egyptians also had significant death-related customs, their practices did not have the same lasting impact on Western funeral traditions as those of the Romans. The Greeks focused more on the individual’s journey to the afterlife, which was less about societal customs and more about philosophical beliefs. The Egyptians,