Reconstructing life history of the 18th century priest from Prozorje, Croatia: bioarchaeological and biochemical approaches

Abstract

The study presents a case of the adult male individual dated to the Early Modern Period buried at the church of St. Martin at Prozorje in Croatia. Based on the burial characteristic, the individual is presumed to be a member of the clergy. Using stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis of the dentine increments from the second permanent mandibular molar (Man 2) of the individual, this study aims to identify dietary changes during the juvenile years of the individual in order to reconstruct the timing of his admission into the seminary. Mean{delta} 13C and{delta} 15N values indicate mixed C3 and C4 terrestrial based diet with the visible animal protein intake. Results of the incremental dentine analysis provide more detailed information. The possible end of the weaning period is identified, followed by the diet based on C4 resources with low animal protein intake with periods of physiological stress during his early childhood. By the end of the observed period, significant dietary change is recorded characterised by the high animal protein intake and consumption of less C4 resources. According to the historical resources, this corresponds with the timing clergy cadets usually entered the seminary with the dietary regiment consisting of daily intake of meat or fish dishes accompanied by variety of fruit and vegetables (C3 resources). This is the first such study conducted in this part of Europe and it significantly contributes to our knowledge of dietary practices and certain social customs in Early Modern Period Croatia.