Blazon is a term commonly associated with heraldry, literature, and even everyday language. While it may not be a word people use frequently, it carries significant historical and symbolic meaning. Understanding what blazon means, where it originates, and how it is used today can help clarify its importance.
Definition of Blazon
Blazon refers to the formal description of a coat of arms in heraldic language. It is a specialized system of words and phrases used to define the colors, symbols, and layout of a shield or emblem.
Beyond heraldry, "blazon" can also mean to display or proclaim something vividly and publicly. In literature and poetry, it refers to a detailed description, often used to praise or highlight beauty.
Origins of the Word Blazon
The word "blazon" comes from the Old French blason, which means "shield" or "coat of arms." It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, and became widely used in heraldic traditions.
In its broader sense, the term evolved to mean any act of making something known or displaying it prominently. This expansion of meaning is why we sometimes see "blazon" used in literature and general speech today.
Blazon in Heraldry
Heraldry is the art and science of designing and describing coats of arms. In this context, blazon is essential because it provides a standardized way to represent shields and emblems.
Elements of a Heraldic Blazon
A heraldic blazon typically includes:
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Field (Background Color) – The main color or pattern on the shield.
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Ordinaries (Geometric Shapes) – Simple shapes like crosses, chevrons, or stripes.
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Charges (Symbols or Figures) – Animals, plants, weapons, or other symbols that represent a family or organization.
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Tinctures (Colors and Metals) – The specific colors used, such as azure (blue), gules (red), argent (silver), and or (gold).
For example, a blazon might read:
"Azure, a lion rampant or, within a border gules."
This means the shield is blue with a gold lion standing on its hind legs, surrounded by a red border.
Blazon in Literature and Poetry
In literature, "blazon" has a different but related meaning. It refers to a detailed description of a subject, often in a poetic or artistic manner. This usage became popular during the Renaissance, especially in poetry that praised the beauty of a person, often a woman.
A famous example is found in the works of William Shakespeare and Edmund Spenser, where poets describe each feature of a beloved in an exaggerated and ornate style.
Examples of Blazon in Poetry
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Shakespeare’s Sonnet 130 plays with the idea of blazon by humorously rejecting traditional comparisons:
"My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun; Coral is far more red than her lips’ red." -
In contrast, Spenser’s Amoretti uses blazon to elevate beauty:
"Her angel’s face, As the great eye of heaven shined bright."
This literary device was widely used to idealize and celebrate beauty, especially during the Elizabethan era.
Blazon in Modern Usage
Even though "blazon" originated in heraldry and poetry, it is still used in modern English, often metaphorically.
Common Uses of Blazon Today
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To Publicly Display – Something that is “blazoned across the headlines” means it is prominently featured in news or media.
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To Announce Boldly – A company might "blazon its new product launch," meaning it advertises it widely.
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To Describe in Detail – Someone might "blazon their achievements" when listing accomplishments in an elaborate way.
Why Blazon Is Still Relevant
Blazon remains significant in different fields:
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Heraldry and Genealogy – Many families and institutions still use coats of arms, and blazoning is crucial for their description.
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Language and Literature – The poetic tradition of blazon continues to influence modern writing.
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Marketing and Branding – Companies use visual symbols and bold displays to "blazon" their identity.
Blazon is a fascinating word with deep historical roots and multiple meanings. From its origins in heraldry to its poetic and modern-day applications, it represents both a system of precise description and an act of bold display. Whether in medieval coats of arms, Renaissance poetry, or contemporary branding, blazon continues to shape language and culture.