Book Review: The Idea of the Labyrinth from Classical Antiquity through the Middle Ages

The Idea of the Labyrinth from Classical Antiquity through the Middle Ages (2019) - 541 pages. AMZN. by Penelope Reed Doob

The Idea of the Labyrinth from Classical Antiquity through the Middle Ages

This book is a comprehensive study of the labyrinth symbol in Western culture. Doob traces the history of the labyrinth from its origins in the ancient world to its development in the Middle Ages. She discusses the different types of labyrinths, their symbolism, and their use in literature, art, and architecture.

What is covered in this book:

• The book is divided into three parts. The first part, "The Classical Labyrinth," discusses the labyrinth in ancient Greece and Rome. Doob examines the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, as well as the labyrinths that were depicted on coins, mosaics, and other artifacts. She also discusses the philosophical and religious significance of the labyrinth in ancient thought.

• The second part, "The Medieval Labyrinth," discusses the labyrinth in the Middle Ages. Doob examines the labyrinths that were depicted in manuscripts, stained glass windows, and other works of art. She also discusses the use of the labyrinth in medieval pilgrimages and religious rituals.

• The third part, "The Idea of the Labyrinth," explores the symbolism of the labyrinth in Western culture. Doob discusses the labyrinth as a symbol of the journey of life, the search for knowledge, and the soul's journey to the divine. She also discusses the labyrinth as a metaphor for the creative process and the process of self-discovery.

Overall this is a good book that reviews labyrinths in Western culture.

Book Review: Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths

Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths (2020) - 272 pages. AMZN. by Charlotte Higgins

Red Thread: On Mazes and Labyrinths

This book explores of the history, symbolism, and uses of labyrinths. It begins with a discussion of the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, then goes on to discuss the different types of labyrinths, their history, and their symbolism.

Topics covered in this book:

• The different types of labyrinths, including the classical labyrinth, the seven-circuit labyrinth, and the Chartres labyrinth.

• The symbolism of the labyrinth, including its association with the journey of the soul, the path to enlightenment, and the cycles of life and death.

• The history of labyrinths, from their origins in the Bronze Age to their revival in recent years.

• The many ways in which labyrinths are being used today, for meditation, spiritual practice, and simply for enjoyment.

• The personal journey of the author, as she explores the labyrinths of her own life.

What this book does best: The author explores the labyrinth as a metaphor for the journey of life, with its twists and turns, its dead ends and its moments of clarity. She also discusses the labyrinth as a tool for meditation and self-discovery. The book is full of fascinating insights into the labyrinth, and it is sure to appeal to anyone who is interested in this fascinating symbol.

Book Review: Labyrinths: Ancient Paths of Wisdom and Peace

Labyrinths: Ancient Paths of Wisdom and Peace (2001) - 112 pages. AMZN. by Virginia Westbury

Labyrinths: Ancient Paths of Wisdom and Peace book cover

This book is a comprehensive guide to the history, symbolism, and uses of labyrinths. It begins by tracing the origins of labyrinths back to the Bronze Age, when simple seven-circuit models were first created. The book then discusses the popularity of labyrinths during Roman times and their peak during the medieval period, when elaborate eleven-circuit models were created. In recent years, there has been a significant revival of interest in labyrinths, and the book explores the reasons for this renewed interest. It looks at the many ways in which labyrinths are being used today, such as tools for meditation, means of connecting with the mysteries of nature, or simply as elegant puzzles. The book concludes with an extensive gazetteer, indicating where the world's finest labyrinths can be found.

Topics covered in this book:

• The different types of labyrinths, including the classical labyrinth, the seven-circuit labyrinth, and the Chartres labyrinth.

• The symbolism of the labyrinth, including its association with the journey of the soul, the path to enlightenment, and the cycles of life and death.

• The history of labyrinths, from their origins in the Bronze Age to their revival in recent years.

• The many ways in which labyrinths are being used today, for meditation, spiritual practice, and simply for enjoyment.

• A gazetteer of the world's finest labyrinths, with information on their location, history, and design.

What this book does best: Chapter 5 is all about the Chartres Labyrinth.