The Victorian Way of Death

In this documentary, Dan Cruickshank delves into the practices surrounding death in Victorian England. He reveals the troubling realities of bodysnatching, the challenges of overcrowded graveyards, and the grandeur of cemeteries. The film also discusses the Victorian reluctance to embrace cremation, alongside the shifting perspectives on death that emerged after the Great War.

Originally aired during Victoria Week in 2001, The Victorian Way of Death was later re-broadcast as part of the Timewatch series in 2002. This documentary provides a unique insight into historical attitudes toward mortality, making it a compelling watch for those interested in both history and societal change during the Victorian era.