Thistles

In medieval manuscripts, thistles could have been used as a symbol of earthly pain, sin, and suffering. When these plants were included in religious texts such as Books of Hours, they had a powerful effect on readers. Books of Hours were used for private prayer and meditation, and thistles served as a visual reminder of the challenges faced in one's spiritual journey and the ways in which they may have fallen short of their ideals. Thistles were a potent reminder of the pain and suffering inherent in life, as well as the potential for redemption and spiritual healing.

Thistles could have also been used to emphasize the gravity of sin and the importance of avoiding it. Furthermore, they could evoke compassion for others suffering as a reminder of all humans' shared experiences of pain and hardship.

By incorporating thistles into a religious text, authors could add depth and complexity to their work. Thistles helped to draw attention to important passages and created a visual motif throughout the manuscript, conveying important themes and ideas in a vivid and memorable way. This would inspire readers to reflect on their own lives and strive toward greater spiritual enlightenment.

Resources Used:

Fisher, Celia. The Medieval Flower Book. British Library, 2007.