Why bread shapes?
Breads in symbolic shapes can be found in many places as part of celebrations, ceremonies and commemorations; they are used for worship, prayer, and thanksgiving; they can be made to encourage good things and to discourage evil things.
But unlike some other symbols, bread is made to be eaten and so people have an intimate, individual relationship with it.
What times of year are symbolic breads made and what rites of passage do they mark? Who makes the breads? Who eats them? What hopes, expectations, taboos and fears surround them? Do they inspire anger or protest, or flag up any issues? (Answer: Yes, they do.)
Symbolic breads in shapes aren't just for children. They take many forms, from intricate and delicate to intimidating, weird and awe-inspiring.
Their unusual histories are worth repeating.
Breads in symbolic shapes can be found in many places as part of celebrations, ceremonies and commemorations; they are used for worship, prayer, and thanksgiving; they can be made to encourage good things and to discourage evil things.
But unlike some other symbols, bread is made to be eaten and so people have an intimate, individual relationship with it.
What times of year are symbolic breads made and what rites of passage do they mark? Who makes the breads? Who eats them? What hopes, expectations, taboos and fears surround them? Do they inspire anger or protest, or flag up any issues? (Answer: Yes, they do.)
Symbolic breads in shapes aren't just for children. They take many forms, from intricate and delicate to intimidating, weird and awe-inspiring.
Their unusual histories are worth repeating.
About the site
I'm Rachel.
I live in the UK and I come from the USA.
I have about 800 cookbooks, mostly cheap and well-used with a lot of stains and splodges.
I'm interested in how people eat and why people eat what they do.
I'm Rachel.
I live in the UK and I come from the USA.
I have about 800 cookbooks, mostly cheap and well-used with a lot of stains and splodges.
I'm interested in how people eat and why people eat what they do.