Medicinal plants in literature

Medicinal plants in literature

medicinal plants in the literature

The use of medicinal plants is an old tradition that is practiced in many cultures all over the world. Medicinal plants play an important role not only in medicine, but also in literature. In this article we will deal with how medicinal plants are shown and used in literature.

medicinal plants as symbolism

Medicinal plants are often used as symbols in the literature to present certain properties or ideas. An example of this is the best known medicinal plant, the rosemary. In literature, rosemary is often associated with energy, freshness and vitality. This symbolic meaning of rosemary was used by Shakespeare, for example, in his play "Hamlet", in which Ophelia Rosmarin gets as a gift. This symbolic use of medicinal plants can help clarify certain moods or character traits.

medicinal plants as motifs in the plot

In addition to their symbolic importance, medicinal plants in literature are often used as motifs in the plot. A good example of this is the plant "Mandragora" from Goethe's "Faust". The mandragora is a plant that was used as a remedy in old folk medicine. In Goethe's work, the Mandragora plays a central role in the plot because it is required to produce a magic means. By using the mandragora as a motif in the plot, the story becomes more exciting and captivating.

descriptions of medicinal plants

In the literary representation of medicinal plants, detailed descriptions of the plants themselves are often given. These descriptions often include information about the appearance, smell and taste of the plants. An example of this is the detailed description of the elderberry in "The Transformation" by Franz Kafka. In this story, the elderberry is shown as a dark, mystical plant that plays an important role in the life of the protagonist. This detailed description creates a certain atmosphere and the reader is better drawn into the story.

medicinal plants as the source of knowledge

In the literature, medicinal plants are often also shown as a source of knowledge. In books, poems or diaries, information about the use of medicinal plants can be included. A well -known example of this is the book "Herbal" by John Gerard, which was published in the 16th century. In this book, Gerard has collected extensive information about the use and properties of medicinal plants. The presentation of medicinal plants as a source of knowledge in the literature can help to pass and preserve this knowledge.

medicinal plants in fairy tales and myths

Medicinal plants also play an important role in fairy tales and myths. Certain plants are often considered magical or holy and assigned to the characters in the fairy tales or myths. An example of this is the tree of life in different mythologies. The tree of life symbolizes life, universal knowledge and the connection between heaven and earth. In fairy tales, certain plants such as the tree of life can play a central role by giving the protagonist strength or help.

FAZIT

Medicinal plants are used in a variety of ways in literature. They can be used as symbols, motifs, sources of knowledge or in descriptions. By using medicinal plants in literature, knowledge of their use and their symbolic meaning is passed on and preserved. Whether in classic works or modern texts, medicinal plants play an important role and contribute to the depth and diversity of literary works.