Friday, 25 November 2011

Origins of the Floral Wreath

The traditional Laurel Wreath originated from Greece and has its home in Greek Mythology. The laurel wreath has come to represent achievement, victory, status and Adobe9A0-064position. And this is with thanks to Apollo; Zeus' son; the god of light and life.
The story goes that Apollo fell in love with the nymph Daphne, however when he pursued her she did not return his love and fled. She asked the river god Peneus to assist her in her flight and this he did, transforming her into a Laurel Tree. Upon discovering this, Apollo, so never to be without Daphne, wore a wreath of laurel on his head, from that day on.
What started in ancient Greece; where wreaths were worn as adornment to represent a persons' rank, occupation or achievement; continued into Roman times where again the use of Laurel Wreaths was widespread in not only the arts and literature but also in education and politics. In the arts the laurel wreath was an expression of respect and meant that one was valued. In government the best known Roman ruler Julius Caesar, proclaimed the laurel wreath "the symbol of the supreme ruler", and it was these wreaths worn by kings but embellished with gold and precious gem stones that evolved into the modern day crown.
The Laurel wreath was also used in the forerunner to the ancient and modern day Olympic games, the Pythian games, to crown the victorious athletes. The modern day Olympic medals still have a symbolic reference to the traditional laurel wreath designed into them. Many other sports also adopted the use of the Laurel wreath to crown its champions and still does today, motor racing for example.
Thanks to Apollo, and his love for Daphne, the traditional Laurel wreath will always be associated with rank, status, respect and achievement.
Through the agesAdobeAdobeexam many different religions and cultures have adopted the wreath for different meanings. Throughout Christianity for example the wreath was adopted as the symbol of advent, the coming of Christ; the world in the darkness of winter awaiting the coming of Jesus, the light of the world, its circular form a symbolic meaning of everlasting life, the family circle of life. Its Pagan origins recognising the basic importance of light to the survival of the body and spirit.
Today wreaths are used for many reasons, when hung on a door, a wreath is a warm welcome. A braided wreath either displayed or worn is a symbol of peace, unity and spiritual ties. A gifted wreath has meanings of friendship, love, growth, eternity, good will, and prosperity. When hung on the wall, a wreath can also become0B0-106 a sign of personal, military, or religious victory. Wreaths are also used as memorials, symbolising eternal life and honour. All thanks to Apollo and his love for Daphne.

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