What Is The Origin Of The Mortarboard?

What Is The Origin Of The Mortarboard?

The mortarboard, also known as a graduation cap, is one of the most iconic symbols of academia. It is a square cap with a flat top and a tassel hanging from the center. The mortarboard is typically worn by students and faculty at graduation ceremonies and other academic events.

The origin of the mortarboard is not entirely clear, but it is thought to have evolved from the caps worn by medieval scholars. These caps were typically made of cloth or leather and were designed to protect the wearer’s head from the cold and sun. Over time, the cap evolved into the more formal mortarboard that we know today.

The mortarboard takes its name from the board that was originally used to hold mortar in place while building. The board was typically made of wood and had a square shape. The mortarboard cap is thought to have been named after the mortar board because it resembled the shape of the board.

The mortarboard has been worn by students and faculty at universities for centuries. The cap is often seen as a symbol of academic achievement and is often worn with a gown and other academic regalia.

In addition to its use in academia, the mortarboard has also been worn by other groups, including military officers and judges. The cap is often seen as a symbol of authority and respect.

The mortarboard is a unique and iconic symbol that has been used for centuries. It is a symbol of academic achievement and is often worn with pride by students and faculty.

Different Types of Mortarboards

There are many different types of mortarboards, each with its own unique design and features. Some of the most common types of mortarboards include:

• The traditional mortarboard: This is the most common type of mortarboard and is typically made of black cloth or velvet. It has a square top and a tassel hanging from the center.
• The tassel mortarboard: This type of mortarboard is similar to the traditional mortarboard, but it has a tassel that is attached to the top of the cap. The tassel is typically made of silk or rayon and is often decorated with a gold or silver tassel cap.
• The doctoral mortarboard: This type of mortarboard is worn by doctoral students and faculty. It is typically made of black velvet and has a gold tassel. The tassel is often decorated with a gold tassel cap.
• The military mortarboard: This type of mortarboard is worn by military officers. It is typically made of black cloth or velvet and has a gold tassel. The tassel is often decorated with a gold tassel cap.

The Mortarboard in Popular Culture

The mortarboard has been featured in popular culture for centuries. It has been seen in paintings, sculptures, and movies. The mortarboard is often used as a symbol of education and learning.

Here are a few examples of the mortarboard in popular culture:

• The mortarboard is featured in the painting “The School of Athens” by Raphael. The painting depicts a group of philosophers and scholars, many of whom are wearing mortarboards.
• The mortarboard is featured in the movie “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.” The movie depicts a group of young wizards and witches, many of whom are wearing mortarboards.
• The mortarboard is featured in the TV show “The Big Bang Theory.” The show depicts a group of scientists and engineers, many of whom are wearing mortarboards.

The Mortarboard Today

The mortarboard is still a popular symbol of academia today. It is worn by students and faculty at graduation ceremonies and other academic events. The mortarboard is also worn by military officers and judges.

The mortarboard is a unique and iconic symbol that has been used for centuries. It is a symbol of academic achievement and is often worn with pride by students and faculty.

Questions and Answers

• What is the origin of the mortarboard?

The mortarboard is thought to have evolved from the caps worn by medieval scholars.

• What are the different types of mortarboards?

There are many different types of mortarboards, including the traditional mortarboard, the tassel mortarboard, the doctoral mortarboard, and the military mortarboard.

• What is the significance of the mortarboard?

The mortarboard is a symbol of academic achievement and is often worn with pride by students and faculty.

• Where is the mortarboard worn?

The mortarboard is worn at graduation ceremonies, other academic events, and by military officers and judges.

• What is the future of the mortarboard?

The mortarboard is likely to continue to be a popular symbol of academia for many years to come.