Skull and Crossbones

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TomBo T
TomBo Jul 27, 2004 19:39:16
Replying to FourWinds

"The symbols that most often occur side by side with the S&XB are the hour-glass, the bell and the coffin. The symbolism is pretty clear."

Yep, I think so. I still see it as part of the Dance of Death tradition (the Danse Macabre was often carved on church walls). Death was much more of a presence in the lives of medieval people than it (he?) is in our lives, and their art/symbols show a preoccupation with, indeed, almost a celebration of, death.

Like I say, though, well off topic. I could talk about the Danse Macabre all day, but I think I'd better be quiet now. :)

K Kozmik_Ken
Kozmik_Ken Jul 28, 2004 11:29:27
Replying to TomBo

>Yep, I think so. I still see it as part of the Dance of Death tradition (the Danse
>Macabre was often carved on church walls). Death was much more of a presence in
>the lives of medieval people than it (he?) is in our lives, and their art/symbols show
>a preoccupation with, indeed, almost a celebration of, death.

Out in the Norfolk countryside there are many churches which date from the late Saxon/early Norman period which were extended or mostly rebuilt during later medieval times (they are quite fascinating in their own right, as they can be read like a history book of the village).

One particular church at Heydon (near Holt), has part of a late Medieval mural on one wall depicting death speaking to a king with an inscription, "As you are now, I once was. As I am now, you will be". There's also medieval armour in the church, a large wooden shield which was used by the Earl family in the crusades and a wonderfully carved Medieval Rood Screen.

I've also seen 'Skull and Crossbones' motifs on gravestones from Norfolk to Scotland (check out the graveyard of Kilmartin Church).