The Symbolism of Yellow: From Divine Light to Cowardly Associations

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction to the Symbolism of Yellow
2. Yellow in Art and Manuscripts during the Early Middle Ages
3. The Abilgensian Inquisition and Yellow Crosses
4. The Marking of Jews in Yellow
5. Yellow and Venetian Prostitutes: Influence on Renaissance Art
6. The Spanish Inquisition and the Sanbenito
7. Yellow as a Symbol of Falsehood and Treason
8. Yellow's Connotation of Jealousy
9. The Rise of Yellow-Belly as a Derogatory Term
10. The Origins of Yellow-Bellied: Chicken or Fake Courage?

Yellow: From Divine Light to Cowardly Symbolism

Yellow, a color that evokes thoughts of warning signals, smiley faces, rubber duckies, and even the Sun for many of us, has had a history of varied symbolism throughout human history. In this article, we will explore the transformation of yellow from representing divine light in art and manuscripts during the Early Middle Ages to becoming a symbol of treachery, sin, and gutlessness in later periods.

1. Introduction to the Symbolism of Yellow

Yellow, often associated with favorable connotations in modern times, has not always been viewed in a positive light. Throughout different periods, yellow has been associated with heresy, jealousy, treachery, and cowardice. This article will delve into the historical significance of yellow and the shift in its symbolism over time.

2. Yellow in Art and Manuscripts during the Early Middle Ages

During the Early Middle Ages, yellow, often used as a cheaper substitute for gold, became a common symbol of divine light in art and manuscripts. It was even used to depict Jesus with blond hair. We will explore the prevalence of yellow in religious artwork during this period and its connection to divine representation.

3. The Abilgensian Inquisition and Yellow Crosses

In the mid-13th century, the Abilgensian Inquisition introduced a new association with yellow. Cathar heretics who repented were forced to wear yellow crosses as part of their penance. We will examine the significance of this practice and its impact on the perception of yellow during the High Middle Ages.

4. The Marking of Jews in Yellow

Jews, commonly despised by other religions during medieval times, were also marked with yellow symbols. From the 8th century onwards, Jewish men in Baghdad were required to wear two yellow badges, one on their head and another on their neck. This practice continued throughout the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. We will delve into the historical context behind this marking and its implications for the symbolism of yellow.

5. Yellow and Venetian Prostitutes: Influence on Renaissance Art

During the Renaissance, the wearing of yellow became prevalent among Venetian prostitutes. This practice spread throughout Italy and influenced artistic depictions, with Mary Magdalene often portrayed in yellow. We will explore the connection between yellow, prostitution, and its portrayal in Renaissance artwork.

6. The Spanish Inquisition and the Sanbenito

In the period of the Spanish Inquisition, heretics were dressed in yellow tunics known as Sanbenitos. We will examine how the use of yellow as a representation of falsehood, treason, and treachery intensified during this time.

7. Yellow as a Symbol of Falsehood and Treason

The negative symbolism of yellow expanded throughout the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Yellow became associated with falsehood, treason, and treachery, with Judas often depicted wearing yellow in religious art. We will explore the reasons behind this shift in perception and its cultural implications.

8. Yellow's Connotation of Jealousy

By the early 17th century, yellow had also come to symbolize jealousy. Thomas Dekker's Northward Hoe (1607) includes a reference to "yellow hose" worn by jealous men. We will examine the association of yellow with jealousy and its continued connotation in present times.

9. The Rise of Yellow-Belly as a Derogatory Term

During the late 18th century, the phrase "yellow-belly" emerged as a derogatory term linked to xenophobia. This term appeared in Grose's A Provincial Glossary (1787), associating those born in the Fens with cowardice. We will discuss the origin and evolution of the term "yellow-belly" as a symbol of cowardice.

10. The Origins of Yellow-Bellied: Chicken or Fake Courage?

The term "yellow-bellied," meaning a coward, gained prominence in English language print during the 20th century. We will explore the possible origins of this term, whether it was inspired by the yellow color of chicken egg yolks or by a metaphorical connection between guts and courage.