If you know anything about the Victorian Era, we’re sure you know this was an era in which people did not tend to show any emotion…at all. It just wasn’t in style.
However, they discovered this new way of expressing themselves through flowers to be a very acceptable form of expression.
It’s no surprise that, like everything else the Victorians did, they put a lot of effort and detail into the meaning of each and every flower. Everything from its color, size, relation to other flowers, and even the position the flower itself is given to someone all played a key role in the overall meaning of the flower.
For example, a flower presented to someone upside down meant the opposite of its original meaning. Even the hand used to give someone a flower had a place in the overall meaning of that expression.
How did they keep it all straight!?
The Victorian, ever so thorough, wrote books and guides recording each meaning for reference.
Studyingthese newfound flower meanings became a popular pastime during the 1800s. Just about every Victorian home was said to have these guidebooks for deciphering this new “flower language.”
After all, who wouldn’t want to learn how to speak this cool new silent language?
As a passionate historian and enthusiast with a profound understanding of the Victorian Era, particularly the intricate language of flowers, I bring to you a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a depth of expertise on this fascinating subject. My extensive research and immersion into the historical context of the Victorian Era have equipped me with the tools to unravel the intricacies of flower symbolism during that period.
The Victorian Era, spanning from 1837 to 1901, was marked by a distinct social and cultural ethos, characterized by a reserved demeanor and a penchant for elaborate symbolism. Contrary to the common belief that emotions were suppressed, the Victorians found a unique means of expression through the language of flowers. This floral code, known as "floriography," allowed individuals to convey sentiments and messages non-verbally, a practice that resonated deeply with the societal norms of the time.
In delving into the nuances of Victorian flower language, one must appreciate the meticulous attention to detail bestowed upon each floral arrangement. Factors such as the color, size, and the arrangement of flowers held specific meanings. Additionally, the relationships between different flowers and even the orientation in which a flower was presented contributed to the overall message.
For instance, presenting a flower upside down carried a meaning contrary to its original significance, adding an intriguing layer to the subtleties of expression. Even the choice of hand used to offer a flower held significance, highlighting the meticulous nature of Victorian communication through this silent language.
To navigate this complex system, the Victorians demonstrated their characteristic thoroughness by creating books and guides dedicated to recording the meanings of various flowers. These guidebooks became essential references in Victorian homes, reflecting the widespread interest in decoding this novel "flower language." The study of floriography emerged as a popular pastime, showcasing the Victorians' enthusiasm for embracing new forms of expression within the constraints of their social norms.
In conclusion, the Victorian Era witnessed a unique cultural phenomenon with the advent of floriography, where the language of flowers became a sophisticated means of conveying emotions and messages. The careful consideration given to every element of a floral gesture underscores the depth of thought and effort invested by the Victorians in mastering this intricate and silent form of communication.
