An Interactive History of Cannibalism
Exploring the act, the myth, and the motivations behind one of humanity’s greatest taboos.
Flesh and Symbol
Cannibalism, the act of consuming one’s own species, has been a part of human history since our earliest ancestors. It is not a monolithic act but a spectrum of behaviors with profoundly different meanings. This interactive guide is designed to help you explore this complex subject by separating it into distinct categories and timelines.
The historical narrative is often complicated. Accusations of cannibalism have been used as tools of propaganda to dehumanize and conquer other cultures. Yet, substantiated proof also exists for its practice in rituals, in warfare, and under the most extreme circumstances of survival.
Use the tabs above to navigate through the different facets of this topic. You will find definitions of its various forms, a timeline of significant historical events, profiles of modern pathological cases, and a look at how cannibalism is portrayed in popular culture. This structured approach aims to move beyond sensationalism to provide a more nuanced understanding.
A Typology of Cannibalism
The act of cannibalism is classified based on the relationship between the eater and the eaten, and the motivation behind the act. Click on the cards to learn more about each type.
Endocannibalism
The consumption of individuals from within one’s own social group, often as part of a funeral rite to honor the dead and incorporate their spirit.
Exocannibalism
The consumption of individuals from outside one’s own group, typically enemies, to celebrate victory, absorb strength, or as an ultimate act of domination.
Survival Cannibalism
Cannibalism practiced out of extreme necessity, such as famine or being stranded, when no other food sources are available. This is an act of desperation, not ritual.
Global Hotspots
This map pinpoints key locations from the history of cannibalism. Click on the neon markers to reveal details about the events or practices associated with each site.
A Timeline of Historical Cases
Cannibalism has appeared at various points in history, driven by famine or cultural practices. Click an event to view details.
Ancient Egypt Famine
German Caves
The Great Famine
The Raft of the Medusa
The Donner Party
The Boyd Massacre
World War II Atrocities
Modern Pathological Cases
In the modern era, cannibalism is almost exclusively an act of individual pathology. The chart below compares the number of victims of several notorious cannibalistic killers.
Cannibalism in Culture
The figure of the cannibal has become a potent symbol in popular culture, often representing the new “vampire” in horror and thriller genres. This fascination reflects a deep-seated fear and curiosity about the boundaries of human behavior.
In Film & Literature
- The Silence of the Lambs
- Sweeney Todd
- Ravenous
- Alive
The Seabrook Account
“It was like good, fully developed veal… mild, good meat with no other sharply defined or highly characteristic taste…”
– William Buehler Seabrook
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