| Subject: Re: My best guess (public) |
Author:
Anonymous
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Date Posted: 15:36:45 10/10/01 Wed
In reply to:
Cliff
's message, "My best guess (public)" on 00:22:55 10/10/01 Wed
Very clever theory, Dr. DeCalais, but you have overlooked some vital points and possibilities. Perhaps most importantly, you have locked onto the idea that the symbols are representative of the thirteen clans of vampire, yet there are clearly only six symbols and only six pairs of windows. Even should you assume that the symbols refer to the seven (former) clans of the Camarilla, you are one symbol short, unless, as you are obliged to do, you include the center circle as a symbol in itself. However, that would serve to place one clan above and separate from the rest, whould would hardly be keeping with the traditions that the Camarilla proclaims to be based upon, especially considering that you well know that the cathedral was built by two vampires of two different clans working together.
Consider, instead, this alternate theory. The symbols and the scenes depicted in the windows are representative, not of the clans, but rather of the six traditions on which our society is based.
The first tradition, the masquerade is clearly depicted by the masks held up by the human and wolf in the the first set of windows. Each is masquerading as the other, moreover making reference to the popular proverb: "Beasts we are, lest beasts we become." The symbol correspondant for this is in the three o'clock position. Now, it must be understood that these symbols have been adapted from their prior meanings to refer, in this new language, to something entirely different. Still, each symbol has a trace of it's original meaning through allusion, much as a symbol of say, a rose or a wolf, or the word "Protean" may mean something different to one of our own kind than it does to a mortal. For example, the first symbol, a cirlcle with a curleque, is a Japanese regal emblem of potential. It's primary reference here is as a royal coat of arms, but also refers to potential. It reminds us that while we are more powerful than mortals, we must walk among them in secret, because of they could easily overpower us, as peasants revolting against a king.
Second, the windows depicting a figure walking into the clouds or down into a grave are reminiscent of the tradition of domain, describing the prince’s domain as including the earth, the air, and the ground beneath his fief. While mortals may be satisfied with the topsoil, we kindred lay claim to the skies and to the underground as well, as is important to remember. The symbol, proceeding clockwise, is a circle with a “T” crossbar, an outdated reference to the mineral kingdom. This can be taken to mean simply to mean that the prince has dominion over the material world within his city, or that, to adopt a different interpretation of the tradition, that a vampire has the right to claim power over the contents and sanctity of his haven. It is, as you have noted, Dr. DeCalais, important to see that the symbol, when inverted, also includes the animal kingdom as well, or the living inhabitants of the domain, as well.
Third, the panels containing the figure and the globes explain the tradition of Progeny. The figure in the images is the prince, who juggles above him the many lives of the people in his city. The windows are clearly a warning, as in the second panel, two of the worlds have been removed. As the tratition usually reads: “If thou createst another without thine Elder's leave, both thou and thy progeny shall be slain.” The third symbol, a multiple usage of a symbol that refers to both gold and to the sun, serves as both a reminder of the value of our many childer and the danger that they represent.
The fourth tradition is represented in the fourth pair of windows proceeding forwards from the doorway. The Accounting, as the fourth tradition is usually referred to, is represented by these two armor-clad figures of justice, on the left sire, and on the right, childe. The sire is more powerful, clearly, but both must kneel and pay tribute with humility and the child must accept the rule of his elders. As it is said, “Until thy progeny shall be released, thou shalt command them in all things.” The symbol here is confusing, but clearly the idea of wet earth referrs to the blood spilt at the embrace, and the more modern meaning of the symbol, that of warning, is important to consider.
Next, the Fifth tradition is exemplified quite clearly by the figure with the book in the two opposing panels. In the left panel, the figure is about to enter another’s domain, a city. “When thou comest to a foreign city, thou shalt present thyself to the one who ruleth there.” In the second panel, he looks into a mirror and is faced with a skull as his reflection, for his life is forfiet should he enter without the prince’s leave. “Without the Word of Acceptance, thou art nothing.” The book, featured prominentlu in both images, is representative of this very Word of Acceptance, and also makes allusion to the books of records many princes once kept of those in their cities. The symbol for this on the larger window is a circle with a line, clearly representing the sun in this instance, an icon which represents the need to find shelter for our kind and to honor the hospitatlity of others.
Finally, the sixth tradition, that of Destruction cannot be denied as being shown clearly in the final panels. The figure on the left is pierced by roses, much as a rosewood stake is traditionally understood to be our bane in many versions of folklore. On the right, a figure much akin to the grim reaper holds both a skull and a dead rose. Everlasting life has been extinguised. The details and iconography of these panels could occupy an essay by themselves, but I will remain brief. The symbol here used for destruction, the only symbol to contain a solid black field, I should add, is traditionally used to imply a religious solemnity, which I’m sure you will agree is quite fitting.
As for the combined symbol itself, the outer circle which surrounds the traditions can only be the Camarilla, and at it’s center, The Inner Circle, quite literally gives support to the entire structure, both the origin and the final enforcers of the traditions listed above.
I hope this has been enlightening.
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