Angela's Ashes Group

Question:

derm
derm
Teacher
Elementary / Primary

In the book "Angela's Ashes", why did they throw water in front of the funeral procession?

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Posted by derm on Monday May 18, 2009 at 2:40 PM and tagged with funeral procession, water.

Answers:

  1. herappleness
    herappleness Teacher
    Graduate School

    eNotes Editor

    It may have been, since the family was so deeply rooted to their Irish culture and rituals, that the practice of throwing water is directly related to an ancient tradition for the protection of the path of the deceased onto another world.  Water, being an element of purification and cleansing is blessed by the priest and throwing as a way to bless and clear the path as they transition.

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/angelas-ashes

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    Posted by herappleness on Monday May 18, 2009 at 3:31 PM