The Green Man is a symbolic figure that appears in art, architecture, folklore, and celebrations. He is often depicted as a face covered in foliage, sometimes with leaves growing from his mouth.
Symbolism
• Rebirth: The Green Man represents the cycle of new growth that happens every spring.
• Seasonal renewal: In modern paganism, the Green Man symbolizes seasonal renewal and ecological awareness.
• Cyclical time: In pagan symbolism, the Green Man symbolizes cyclical time.
History
• The Green Man has been carved in stone and wood in medieval churches and cathedrals.
• The Green Man has also appeared in parades, pageants, and other rituals.
• The Green Man has been associated with May Day celebrations in Northern and Central Europe.
Other names
• The Green Man is also known as Jack-in-the-Green, Robin Hood, the King of May, and the Garland.