The project entitled “The Ramifications of Meaning: An Exploration of Arborescence and L’Arbre des Batailles” delves into the symbolic journey of the tree in Occidental culture. It draws inspiration from the 14th-century French manuscript L’Arbre des Batailles by Honorat Bovet to examine possible sources of influence that led to the tree’s identity merging with ‘higher meaning’ in the public’s perception. During the 14th and 15th centuries, the tree played a significant role in the Kingdom of France, embodying the connection between man and the divine, royal lineage, hierarchy, and tools for scholarly education.
Trees acted as witnesses, mnemonic devices, and illustrations for contextual support. By presenting a “Tree of Suffering”, the manuscript (L’Arbre des Batailles) provides an allegorical framework that, combined with Bovet’s professional and religious experience, helps expose the evolution of arborescent culture. This analysis sheds light on the impact of religious, intellectual, and administrative regimes on the development of arboreal iconography. It also showcases how the tree’s identity has become inseparable from higher meaning in Occidental civilization.
If you wish to view the full, written thesis, click the attached link!