NBE Funeral Directing Practice Exam

What is emphasized in an elegy?

1. Joy and celebration of life

2. Sorrow and lamentation for the dead

3. Historical accounts of the deceased

4. Religious practices of the community

The correct answer is: Sorrow and lamentation for the dead

An elegy is a type of poem or literary work that focuses on expressing sorrow and lamentation for someone who has died. This form of writing is often reflective, conveying deep feelings of grief and loss. The emphasis on mourning makes it a poignant tribute that honors the deceased by articulating the pain of their absence. In contrast, other choices do not align with the primary focus of an elegy. While joy and celebration of life might be found in other genres, such as an ode, they do not reflect the tone of an elegy. Historical accounts would suggest a more factual or narrative approach, rather than the emotional depth characteristic of elegies. Lastly, while religious practices can be part of the context surrounding death, they are not the central theme of an elegy, which is predominantly focused on personal grief and remembrance.