Patterns & Metaphors
Mythical clothing
Other Names:
Magical garments
Template:
This class of symbolic artifacts includes items worn by gods and supernatural beings, and by men; but which never existed, or, if they existed, never had magical properties. Magical hats and helmets have made beings invincible or invisible. The wizard's and witch's conical head-gear, in some traditi]ons, invested them with their supernatural powers. Magical footwear includes seven-league boots, red shoes that dance by themselves, shoes that could take anyone anywhere by wishing, and winged sandals to fly through the air. Magical veils, when removed, cause all kinds of havoc. Magical cloaks provide invisibility or invincibility. There have been mythical and magical dresses, aprons, girdles, belts, breeches and trousers, gloves, eyeglasses, and (Mary Poppins et al) magical umbrellas.
Metaphor:
Magical and mythical garments symbolically strengthen the functions of the parts of the body they attire. High hats allow for deep thoughts, long shoes for big steps, delicate gloves for heightening the sensation of touch, small eyeglasses to see finely. The most common magical garment in the European cultures is the long white wedding gown, whose billowing form and extended train symbolize fecundity and progeny.<
