Academic Tradition Unveiled: Why Do Graduates Wear Mortarboard Hats?

A well-known representation of academic success

The mortarboard hat has a long history and great significance in British academia. Scholars wear this unique headgear, also called an academic cap, with pride as they commemorate the end of their scholastic journey. It is an essential component of the traditional graduation costume.

Symbolism of the Mortarboard Hat

The mortarboard has historical significance because of its square, flat board and tassel hanging from the middle. Its design is thought to have originated from the square caps that medieval university clerics wore. It eventually took on the familiar square form that we now associate with graduation caps. The term "mortarboard" originates from the common interpretation of the square shape as a representation of the stone shape employed by masons.

The wearing of the mortarboard signifies the pinnacle of academic achievement and the wearer's preparedness to face the world with a wealth of knowledge and skills. The hat is a material representation of the wearer's commitment, diligence, and academic goals.

Tipping the Hat Tradition

The act of "tipping" or "tossing" the mortarboard hat at graduation ceremonies is one of the most endearing and enduring customs connected with it in British academia. This ceremonial gesture marks the beginning of a new chapter in the graduates' lives and is a happy way for them to show their accomplishment.

After the tassel is turned and degrees are officially conferred, the mortarboard is usually tipped. In order to ceremoniously mark the change from student to graduate, graduates move the tassel from one side of the mortarboard to the other. After that, there's usually a group photo opportunity where grads toss their mortarboards into the air. This action represents the graduating class's combined happiness and accomplishment and serves as a visual celebration.

It's important to remember, though, that the custom of throwing mortarboards has changed over time. Some institutions and ceremonies restrict or change the cap-throwing tradition because of safety concerns and the potential for injury from falling caps. As a reaction, graduates frequently opt to hang onto their mortarboards or take part in a more regulated and orchestrated hat toss.

Cultural Impact and Continuity

In popular culture as much as within university walls, the mortarboard hat has endured as a testament to academic success. Its unique look is frequently highlighted in cartoons, illustrations, and depictions of academics and graduates.

The mortarboard has symbolic meaning outside of graduation ceremonies, both in the social and professional spheres. When someone sees someone wearing a mortarboard, they frequently conjure images of accomplishment, intelligence, and wisdom. It turns into a visual cue that is used by everyone to identify educational attainment.

In conclusion, the mortarboard hat has a purpose in British academia beyond simple ceremonial use. Its meaning goes back a long way in educational history, symbolizing the academic path and the change from student to graduate. The custom of tipping the hat—either with a controlled gesture or a toss—captures the happiness and accomplishment of the graduating class and creates a poignant and significant moment in the scholastic journey.