The Green Man Myth and Reality
The Green Man Myth and Reality by Imogen Corrigan, published by Amberley Publishing on March 15, 2025, offers an insightful exploration of the ‘green man’ or foliate head, a motif commonly found in pre-Reformation cathedrals and various churches. This 96-page book delves into the decorative elements of arches, corbels, roof bosses, choir stalls, and chancel screens, highlighting the diverse representations of the foliate head, which range from beautiful to grotesque, all rich with religious symbolism.
Readers will discover the origins of the green man in folklore and Christian tradition, examining its connections to pagan beliefs and fertility rites, often depicted alongside dragons and other mythical creatures. The book features a variety of illustrations showcasing different styles of foliate heads across numerous sacred sites, making it a valuable resource for those interested in the intersection of architecture, history, and social sciences. This edition serves as a companion for visitors to these sacred places, enhancing their understanding of the cultural and historical significance of the green man motif.
Official synopsis Publisher
The ‘green man’, or foliate head, can be found in almost every pre-Reformation cathedral and in many churches. It often decorates arches, corbels, roof bosses, choir stalls and chancel screens. The foliate head was depicted in a variety of ways, some beautiful and some grotesque, and imbued with much religious symbolism. In this book, Imogen Corrigan takes the reader on a journey of discovery, revealing the different types of foliate head and their contexts. Their origins in folklore and Christian tradition are explored, taking in pagan beliefs and fertility rites, often accompanied by dragons and other monsters.
Featuring a range of illustrations showing different styles of foliate head in a wide variety of cathedrals and churches, this book is an essential companion for those who visit sacred places, whether for spiritual, architectural or historical reasons.
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