Symbolism and Legends of the Unicorn
Unicorn Symbolism and Legends Related to the Unicorn
First of all, not everyone believes a unicorn to be a horse with a horn. In fact, most legends describe a unicorn as having the body of a horse with the tail of a lion, legs and feet of a deer, and a single horn about one and a half cubits long extending from its forehead. Up until the 17th century, unicorns were believed to be real animals, as evidenced by a few "unicorn horns" in existence. However, scientists later announced the unicorn horns to really belong to narwhals, a small arctic whale which has a long horn extending from its upper jaw.
Symbolically speaking, the unicorn was famous for its virtue, strength, and courage. People believed its horn to be a powerful antidote for poisoning. But unicorns were difficult to catch, according to legend. Evidently, the unicorn could only be captured by a virgin maiden. The unicorn could sense her purity and lay its head in her lap. The maiden would therefore lure the unicorn to her and the hunters would then make the kill.
During the middle ages, this analogy led to an allegory of Christ's reincarnation - with the maiden being Mary and Christ being the unicorn. As such, unicorns also symbolize purity, elegance, and charm.
The unicorn is also used symbolically in heraldry - flags, crests, etc. It appears in many stories, legends, coloring books, and even video games. Many people in modern society associate unicorns with "fantasy" products, including unicorn jewelry, unicorn statues, and even themed birthday parties.
What do you think of unicorns? Have you ever heard of these legends? Please comment below.
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Sources:
Wikipedia - Unicorns
Crossroad Symbols
Dictionary.com
Published by Kristen Wilkerson
I am a reflective individual who enjoys learning and helping people. I have a Masters in Education, specializing in Curriculum and Instruction. Also I have a Bachelor s degree in Mathematics and Computer Sc... View profile
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10 Comments
Post a CommentInteresting article!
I've always loved the white magical unicorn. It's always depicted as a beautiful magestic animal.
Very interesting. Thanks for the info. : )
How interesting!
Kristen what a lovely article. I've added you to my favourites and look forward to reading more from your wide range of interesting titles. :)
Fantastic read Kristen!
Did not know about the Christian connection.
Great article. I am always open to the fact that some things could exist. I believe in the written evidence that mankind was created by the Annunaki in a "birthing chamber", or in Sumerian "E-Din" (Eden) as a clone taking the genetic material of the "Gods" and a primitive human from Earth. With the tales of Minotaurs and Centaurs going back to ancient Greek times and beyond, is it not possible that these existed, maybe as the result of genetic manipulation? I read that 90% of the creatures on Earth are already extinct, so who is to say that eons ago there were such creatures anyhow. I guess we will never know.
I love the mystery and myth behind unicorns. This was a great piece!
I had never heard of this before: "analogy led to an allegory of Christ's reincarnation". Interesting, cheers :)