Scratches in the earth: the underworld as a theme in British prehistory, with particular reference to the neolithic and earlier bronze age

A number of examples where authors have invoked the concept of an underworld in explaining various prehistoric activities are catalogued and considered. In drawing this material together it is hoped that the case for exploring the underworld as a general theme in pre‐Iron Age Britain is made. In addition, the usefulness of looking at various prehistoric activities from the perspective of the underworld is considered. In particular, the phenomenon of inversion is examined.