
The Green Man
Myth and Reality
Imogen Corrigan(Author)
Amberley Publishing
Published on 15. March 2025
Book
Paperback/Softback
96 pages
978-1-3981-1690-0 (ISBN)
Description
The 'green man', or foliate head, can be found in almost every pre-Reformation cathedral and in many churches. It often decorates arches, corbels, roof bosses, choir stalls and chancel screens. The foliate head was depicted in a variety of ways, some beautiful and some grotesque, and imbued with much religious symbolism. In this book, Imogen Corrigan takes the reader on a journey of discovery, revealing the different types of foliate head and their contexts. Their origins in folklore and Christian tradition are explored, taking in pagan beliefs and fertility rites, often accompanied by dragons and other monsters.
Featuring a range of illustrations showing different styles of foliate head in a wide variety of cathedrals and churches, this book is an essential companion for those who visit sacred places, whether for spiritual, architectural or historical reasons.
Featuring a range of illustrations showing different styles of foliate head in a wide variety of cathedrals and churches, this book is an essential companion for those who visit sacred places, whether for spiritual, architectural or historical reasons.
Reviews / Votes
'This is a thought-provoking and interesting read. Corrigan manages to present a strong argument in only 95 pages, while also producing an accessible volume that will appeal to the casual reader, as well as the hardened church crawler and stone botherer.' * Chartered Institute for Archaeologists, October 2025 *More details
Language
English
Place of publication
Chalford
United Kingdom
Illustrations
80 Illustrations
Dimensions
Height: 233 mm
Width: 165 mm
Thickness: 9 mm
Weight
306 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-3981-1690-0 (9781398116900)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Person
Imogen Corrigan is an experienced tour guide and lecturer. She works for The Arts Society as well as running courses and study tours for specialist travel firms. Her first book Stone on Stone: The Men Who build the Cathedrals was published by Robert Hale. Her most recent book The Green Man, is published by Amberley.