The mortarboard hat!
In many Western cultures, the mortarboard hat is a traditional academic hat worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies. It's also known as a "cap" or "tassel cap." The mortarboard has a long history dating back to medieval Europe.
Here are some interesting facts about the mortarboard hat:
1. **Design**: The mortarboard hat typically consists of a square board with a tassel hanging from it. The board is usually made of cardboard, felt, or another material.
2. **Symbolism**: The mortarboard represents the mortar and pestle used by medieval scholars to grind medicinal herbs. Wearing a mortarboard signifies the graduate's readiness to "grind out" knowledge and wisdom in their chosen field.
3. **Tassel**: The tassel is often worn hanging down from the mortarboard, with the long end representing the graduate's future (or the unknown). Some institutions have specific rules about which way the tassel should be worn (e.g., with the long end pointing up or down).
4. **Historical significance**: In medieval times, students wore a similar hat called a "coif" or "cap" as part of their academic attire. The mortarboard evolved from this tradition.
5. **Regional variations**: While the mortarboard is widely used in Western countries, there are regional differences in design and materials. For example, some universities in the United Kingdom use a different type of hat called a "gown cap."
6. **Tradition**: Wearing a mortarboard is a time-honored tradition that dates back centuries. In many cultures, it's an important part of the graduation ceremony, symbolizing the culmination of academic achievement and the beginning of a new chapter in life.
Overall, the mortarboard hat has become an iconic symbol of academic accomplishment and a cherished tradition in many parts of the world.
A Square Academic Cap!
If you're looking to purchase a Square Academic Cap, I can suggest some options:
1. **Amazon**: Amazon offers a wide selection of square caps from various brands, including Columbia, Russell Athletic, and more. You can search for "square academic cap" on the website.
2. **Etsy**: Etsy is an excellent platform to find unique, handmade, or vintage Square Academic Caps. Use the search term "square academic cap" or "academic cap" along with keywords like "vintage," "handmade," or "custom."
3. **Specialty stores**: If you're looking for a specific brand or style, try searching online for specialty stores that sell academic regalia, such as graduation caps and gowns. Some popular options include Herff Jones, Balfour, and Jostens.
4. **Ebay**: Ebay is another great platform to find Square Academic Caps from various sellers. Use the search term "square academic cap" or "academic cap" along with keywords like "new," "used," or "vintage."
5. **Directly from manufacturers**: Some manufacturers, such as Columbia and Russell Athletic, sell their products directly through their websites or authorized retailers.
Before making a purchase, please ensure you're buying from a reputable seller, especially if you're shopping online. Additionally, double-check the size, material, and any specific requirements (e.g., for academic institutions) to ensure the cap meets your needs.
Would you like me to provide more specific details about Square Academic Caps or help with anything else?
A mortarboard hat, also known as a cap or tam, is a traditional academic headgear worn by graduates at university and college commencement ceremonies. The mortarboard has a rich history and symbolism associated with it.
Here are some common meanings and traditions surrounding the mortarboard hat:
1. **Symbol of knowledge**: The mortarboard represents the mortar and pestle used by ancient Greeks to grind medicines and herbs, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom.
2. **Graduation tradition**: Wearing a mortarboard is a centuries-old tradition that originated in medieval Europe. It signifies the culmination of academic studies and the transition from student to alumnus.
3. **Two equal sides**: The mortarboard has two identical sides, representing balance and equality between both sides of the brain (logic and creativity) or the duality of human nature.
4. **Tassel significance**: The tassel that hangs down from the mortarboard is a symbol of academic achievement. It's often colored to represent different fields of study or degrees earned.
5. **Furled tassel**: When the tassel is furled (folded), it represents the uncertainty and challenges faced during one's academic journey. When the tassel is unfurled, it signifies the successful completion of that journey.
6. **Color significance**: The color of the mortarboard and tassel often corresponds to the institution or degree earned:
* Black: symbolizes simplicity, elegance, and tradition
* White: represents purity, innocence, and new beginnings
* Gold or yellow: signifies achievement, excellence, and honor
7. **Removing the mortarboard**: According to tradition, graduates remove their mortarboards as they exit the ceremony, symbolizing the completion of one chapter in life and the beginning of a new stage.
In summary, the mortarboard hat is a powerful symbol that represents academic achievement, knowledge, wisdom, balance, and the transition from student to alumnus. Its significance varies across institutions and cultures, but it remains an integral part of graduation ceremonies worldwide.
Graduation caps, also known as mortarboards, have a rich history and symbolism. Here are some common differences in graduation caps:
1. **Tassels:**
* Color: Tassels can be colored to represent the student's degree or field of study (e.g., engineering, arts).
* Position: The tassel is usually worn on the right side of the cap, but some institutions may have specific rules.
2. **Cords and ribbons:**
* Honors students: Some schools award cords or ribbons to recognize academic achievements, such as honor roll or valedictorian status.
* Service organizations: Fraternities, sororities, and other service organizations may add cords or ribbons to signify membership.
3. **Emblems or crests:**
* University-specific designs: Many institutions feature their own emblems or crests on the graduation cap, which can include animals, symbols, or logos.
* Student organization affiliations: Some students may choose to wear caps with emblems representing their extracurricular activities or clubs.
4. **Specialty caps:**
* Interdisciplinary programs: Students from interdisciplinary programs (e.g., engineering-arts) might have unique cap designs that reflect their field of study.
* International students: Some institutions may offer international student caps with distinctive colors, emblems, or designs to recognize the diversity of their global student body.
5. **Color significance:**
* Academic disciplines: Different fields of study are often associated with specific colors:
+ Arts and humanities: Red or orange
+ Sciences: White or blue
+ Engineering: Green or yellow
6. **Ceremonial caps:**
* Honorary degrees: In some cases, honorary degree recipients may wear special caps or hoods to distinguish themselves from regular graduates.
7. **Personalization:**
* Student nameplates: Some institutions offer personalized nameplates for graduation caps, which can include the student's name, initials, or a message.
Remember that specific traditions and customs vary across institutions, so it's essential to check with your university or department for their unique cap-wearing guidelines.
The graduation cap, also known as a mortarboard, has its roots in medieval Europe, but interestingly, the Islamic world also has its own equivalent, which predates the Western tradition.
In Islamic culture, the equivalent of the graduation cap is called the "Taqiyah" or "Kufi". The Taqiyah is a type of hat that is worn by graduates and scholars to signify their academic achievement. The word "Taqiyah" literally means "to cover" or "to hide", which refers to the fact that the graduate's head was covered with this special hat as a sign of humility and modesty.
The Taqiyah has its roots in ancient Islamic tradition, dating back to the 8th century AH (12th century CE). It is believed to have originated from the practice of wearing a simple cloth or turban by scholars and students as a symbol of their dedication to learning. Over time, the design and style of the Taqiyah evolved to include intricate embroidery, calligraphy, and other decorative elements.
In modern times, the Taqiyah is still worn by graduates in many Islamic countries, particularly in countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. It is often decorated with gold or silver threads, and may feature Arabic inscriptions or quotes from the Quran. The Taqiyah is an important part of Islamic academic tradition, symbolizing not only the graduate's achievement but also their commitment to their faith and community.
Interestingly, while the Western graduation cap (mortarboard) has its own unique history and symbolism, the Taqiyah shares some similarities with it. Both are worn as a sign of academic achievement, and both have a certain level of formality and tradition attached to them.
A great topic!
Graduation caps, also known as mortarboards or academic hoods, are an important part of a graduate's attire during commencement ceremonies. Here are some types of graduation caps:
1. **Traditional Mortarboard**: This is the most common type of graduation cap. It's a square or rectangular cap with tassels and a flat top.
2. **Tassel Cap**: Similar to the traditional mortarboard, but with a rounded top instead of a flat one. Tassels are usually attached to the cap's front or side.
3. **Hooded Mortarboard**: This type features a hood that can be worn over the graduate's shoulders and is typically lined with their academic institution's colors. Hoods often have a tassel attached to the end.
4. **Long Hood**: A long, flowing hood that can reach down to the graduate's knees or ankles. These are often used for doctoral degrees or other high-level academic achievements.
5. **Short Hood**: A shorter version of the long hood, usually reaching just below the shoulders. These are commonly used for bachelor's and master's degrees.
6. **Cap and Gown with No Tassel**: In some cases, graduates may not wear a tassel on their cap. This is often seen in more casual or alternative academic ceremonies.
7. **Specialty Caps**: Some institutions offer specialty graduation caps that reflect the graduate's field of study or achievement. For example, a medical student might wear a cap with a miniature stethoscope or a nurse's cap with a red cross emblem.
8. **Customized Caps**: Some graduates choose to personalize their caps with creative designs, such as artwork, logos, or inspirational quotes.
Remember, the type of graduation cap worn can vary depending on the academic institution, degree level, and cultural traditions.
I see what you're getting at!
A "rigid skull" graduation hat is not a real thing, but I think you might be joking or poking fun at the traditional mortarboard caps worn by graduates.
For those who may not know, a mortarboard is a square cap with straight sides and a flat top, typically made of cardboard or fabric. It's a classic symbol of academic achievement and is often decorated with a tassel and other embellishments.
While a "rigid skull" graduation hat might sound like an interesting and edgy alternative, I think it's safe to say that it wouldn't be a practical or comfortable choice for graduates!
The men's square academic cap!
A classic and timeless design, the men's square academic cap is a popular choice among academics, professionals, and students alike. Here are some key features and benefits:
**Design:**
The men's square academic cap is characterized by its flat, square shape with a slightly curved brim to protect the eyes from sunlight or harsh lighting conditions. The cap is usually made of cotton, wool, or other breathable materials.
**Features:**
* Flat top and slightly curved brim for optimal protection
* Adjustable strap in the back to ensure a comfortable fit
* Breathable materials to keep your head cool and dry
**Benefits:**
1. **Practicality:** The men's square academic cap is designed to provide practical protection from the elements, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities, research, or working in harsh environments.
2. **Style:** The classic design makes it a versatile accessory that complements various outfits, from casual attire to formal wear.
3. **Comfort:** The adjustable strap and breathable materials ensure a comfortable fit, reducing the risk of sweating or discomfort during long periods of wear.
4. **Respectability:** The men's square academic cap is often associated with intellectual pursuits, making it a symbol of respectability and erudition.
**Occasions:**
1. **Academic settings:** Perfect for professors, researchers, students, or anyone working in academia.
2. **Outdoor activities:** Great for hikers, campers, outdoor enthusiasts, or professionals working outdoors.
3. **Formal events:** Suitable for business meetings, conferences, or formal gatherings where a touch of sophistication is desired.
In summary, the men's square academic cap is an excellent choice for those seeking practicality, comfort, and respectability while maintaining a classic and timeless style.