Congressional Mappa Mundi Analysis

The Hereford Mappa Mundi was created in around the 1300s and is currently being kept in the Hereford Cathedral. The map was drawn on a single sheet of vellum (calfskin). It measures 162.56cm by 132.08cm (64 inches by 52 inches) and has many drawings that delineate the period in which the map was made, showing us about how people lived in that time. The maps were drawn and written with lots of detailed information, but could only be read by people who spoke a certain branch of French (Norman French - The language of the educated non-religious elites). This indicates that most people could only speak one language. The map demonstrates, not only the geographical features of the world but also the spirituality aspects too. It incorporated biblical artworks and classic legends. It was presumed that the map was used to educate. This highlights that the map was trusted and valued. …show more content…
It is placed in the center of the map because it was thought to be in the center of the inhabited world. Similar to Jerusalem, there is another area on the map called Eden. Eden, located at the very top of the map was believed to be the earthly paradise. It is portrayed by around island and is drawn in a way that suggests that it is inaccessible to humans. This is depicted in the illustration with closed gates, a ring of fire surrounding it and a large body of water encircling. It was presumed that in Eden, Eve readies to take the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge, but an evil serpent lurks within the tree. In additions, there are also biblical stories shown throughout the map. The Christ in Majesty is shown at the very top of the map, with the Garden of Eden. The Red Sea and Exodus, Noah’s Ark and Babylon and the tower of Babel are all positioned towards the top of the map too. This is thought to represent how highly religion was valued in that time