A Look at the Design and Function of the Mortarboard Throughout Its Evolution

The mortarboard, sometimes referred to as an academic cap, is a characteristic feature of academic regalia that is distinguished by its flat, square form, attached tassel, and combination of practical and symbolic materials. Its roots can be found in the medieval colleges of Europe, where clergy and scholars denoted their rank with hoods and caps. The mortarboard took on its current shape over time, maintaining its deep symbolic significance while fulfilling practical needs for graduation ceremonies.

Design Features

The mortarboard is mainly made up of a square, flat board that is fastened to a skullcap. This square shape, which represents the work and effort needed to learn, is said to mimic the mortarboard tool used by masons. To maintain its flat shape without being excessively heavy for the wearer, the stiff board is usually composed of lightweight, durable materials like cardboard, pressed felt, or synthetic composites. Its straightforward style emphasizes academic accomplishment above ostentatious displays of wealth or position, in contrast to the more ornate caps of the past.

Underneath the board, an elasticized band or fitting piece holds the cap in place so it doesn't move during the ceremony. However, because of its tight fit, graduates frequently have to carefully balance the cap on their heads, which adds to the custom and ceremony of the event.

The button with the tassel attached is located in the middle of the top of the mortarboard. The tassel, which is a string or rope, is typically made of silk or synthetic fibers and is frequently dyed in colors that correspond to the graduate's field of study or the colors of the graduating school. Its positioning and motion during the commencement ceremony have profound symbolic meaning. Usually, the tassel on the right side of the mortarboard is where graduates start the ceremony. They shift the tassel to the left to represent their graduation from candidate status after getting their diploma. Their scholastic odyssey comes to an end with this ritualized gesture.

Functionality and Symbolism

The mortarboard's function and design are closely related. In addition to being a well-known representation of academic success, the square board gives ample room for a tassel to be attached without obscuring the wearer's view. In addition, the smooth surface has sparked a trend in which graduates embellish their caps with sayings, artwork, or ornaments, turning the cap from a useful item into a platform for creative expression.

Beyond its symbolic meaning, the tassel gives the mortarboard's otherwise straightforward form a decorative touch. Graduates can visibly reflect their field of study thanks to its colors, which frequently signify academic specialties. In certain instances, the tassel's color—gold for doctorate degrees, white for arts and humanities degrees—can indicate the degree attained. In a sea of grads, this use of color coding makes it easier to spot different academic distinctions.

The mortarboard's material selection also strikes a balance between heritage and usefulness. During ceremonies, graduates may wear the cap comfortably for longer lengths of time because to its lightweight materials, and its sturdy construction guarantees that it will keep its shape and be able to be stored as a keepsake. The cap's usage of fabric or synthetic material echoes its historical origins as ecclesiastical headgear, connecting contemporary academic accomplishments to the venerable customs of learning and religious establishments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the materials, tassel, and square shape of the mortarboard are essential to both its use and meaning. During the ceremonial transition, the tassel signifies both individual achievement and group recognition, while the square cap denotes academic labor. Its style permits individual expression while guaranteeing comfort and toughness. As a result, the mortarboard continues to be a physically striking and culturally significant representation of academic achievement and tradition, signifying the graduation process.