Ancient civilizations often regarded ghosts as spirits that could return when the dead had not received proper treatment or when grievances remained unresolved. In Mesopotamia neglected spirits were believed to cause illness and distress. Ancient Egyptians sometimes wrote letters asking deceased relatives for protection or assistance. Roman accounts also linked hauntings to improper burial, as in Pliny the Youngerβs story of a ghost whose appearances cease after its remains receive burial.
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies.
Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style