Glossary
Medieval Heraldry A to Z - Z
Designs, or coat of arms, were invented to help recognise one person from another. How far back this idea was first put into practice is not known but from the first half of the twelfth century (1100-1150) knights began to use designs on their flags and shields to identify themselves in battle and in tournaments. The designs commonly passed down from one generation to the next and became means of identifying an entire family and not just a single person. The term 'coat of arms' comes the the surcoat, a textile garment, that was worn over the armour and was decorated with the same design as the shield.
Zodiac
The signs of the zodiac can be used as charges. The twelve signs are shown below.
Aquarius
Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the zodiac, associated with dates from approximately January 20 to February 18. It's an air sign, known for its progressive, innovative, and independent nature.
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Aries
Aries is a fire sign, ruled by the planet Mars, and its symbol is the ram. In Western astrology, the Sun is in Aries from approximately March 21st to April 19th.
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Cancer
Represented by the crab, cancer is associated with the dates June 21 to July 22. It is the fourth sign in the zodiac, ruled by the Moon, and embodies qualities of nurturing, sensitivity, and emotional depth.
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Capricorn
Capricorn, the tenth sign in the zodiac, spans from approximately December 22nd to January 19th. It is an earth sign, known for being practical, ambitious, and hardworking.
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Gemini
Gemini is the third sign in the zodiac, associated with the constellation Gemini and the dates between May 21 and June 20. Gemini is known as a mutable air sign, symbolized by the twins (Castor and Pollux), and is often associated with traits like curiosity, adaptability, and communication.
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Leo
Leo, the fifth sign of the zodiac, corresponds to the constellation Leo and is associated with the period between approximately July 23 and August 22. Ruled by the Sun, Leos are often described as confident, charismatic, and natural-born leaders, embodying the strength and regality of their lion symbol.
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Libra
Libra, the seventh sign of the zodiac. Ruled by Venus, the planet of love and beauty , is associated with balance, harmony, and justice, symbolized by the scales. Dates typically fall between September 23rd and October 23rd.
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Pisces
Pisces, the twelfth and final astrological sign in the zodiac, is associated with the dates February 19 to March 20. It's a water sign, known for its emotional depth, empathy, and creative nature.
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Sagittarius
Sagittarius, the ninth sign of the zodiac, is associated with dates between November 22 and December 21. It's a fire sign, known for its adventurous, optimistic, and freedom-loving nature. Symbolized by the archer, often depicted as a centaur drawing a bow, representing their quest for knowledge and exploration.
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Scorpio
The Scorpio zodiac sign is the eighth sign in astrology, associated with the constellation Scorpius. It typically spans from October 23 to November 21. Scorpios are known for their intense, passionate, and sometimes mysterious nature.
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Taurus
Taurus is the second astrological sign in the zodiac, represented by the bull constellation. People born between April 20 and May 20 fall under this sign. Taurus is an earth sign, known for being grounded, dependable, and practical.
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Virgo
Virgo is the sixth astrological sign in the zodiac, associated with those born between August 23 and September 22. It is represented by the maiden or virgin, and is an Earth sign, known for being practical, logical, and detail-oriented.
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Glossary
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Medieval Castles
Types of castles
- Early Fortifications
- Castles of William the Conqueror
- Earthwork castles
- Motte and bailey castles
- Castles of Edward I
- Concentric castles
Types of keep
Other details
