Continental Symbolry Ethnicity in The Wild Cards | World Anvil

Continental Symbolry

Throughout history, colors have grown to have certain meanings, often related to the covert impact that Tarot abilities had. In recent times, due to growing knowledge about Tarot abilities, researchers have started noticing the likely origins of these associations.   Furthermore, with Tarot abilities now being known and tolerated in society, there are symbols now actively associated with the Tarot suits. The obvious ones are the four Tarot Suits: Swords are offense, Staves are defense, Pentacles are wits, and Cups are willpower. Most non-Tarot users do not dare use these symbols anymore, but alternative suit symbols are still used with varying meanings.  

Colors

Black
Stands for being alert and willing to fight to protect. It originates from Tarot Monsters and other threats in the night. Hunters and guards that fought to protect settlements, would don the color black to indicate they were home in the night.   Within Tarot Lore, the most strongly connected cards are the Seven of Staves (Valor), Nine of Staves (Strength), Four of Swords (Truce), and Eight of Swords (Interference).  
Gray
Stands for mystery, transition, and detachment. It originates from twilight and fog, liminal moments where people would not know what would happen. It is often used by mercenaries, to indicate their lack of permanent allegiance. Observing instances, such as Tax Officers and accountants, will use it to signal their detachment and neutrality.   Within Tarot Lore, the connected cards are the Two and Eight of Pentacles (Change, Prudence).  
White
White has different associations within different context. On one hand, it is associated with purity and kindness. But it also is considered the opposite of black, as a lack of action despite it being needed. Furthermore, obsession with purity has a bad reputation. So white is often considered a naive romantic ideal, which cannot survive in harsh reality. It often is used by noble families in combination with other colors, to illustrate having ideals that they strive for.   Within Tarot Lore, we also find this duality. On one hand, the connected cards include the Two of Cups (Love) and Two of Swords (Peace). On the other hand they include the Five and Eight of Cups (Disappointment, Indolence).  
Blue
Another color with conflicting meanings. On one hand it is associated with trust and serenity, due to the calmness of a blue sky or water. But it also is considered harsh, violent seas or hostile ice. This duality has led to it being a popular color for soldier uniforms. Doctors also use it, to symbolize they sometimes have to make painful choices in their treatments.   Within Tarot Lore, this shows in the associated cards, the Six and Nine of Swords (Science, Cruelty).  
Red
Stands for strong emotions, passion, hotbloodedness. People willing to spill their own blood if needed, and people turning red in rage, are what gave birth to these meanings. It is used by those indicating they are willing to die for their cause. Often used by palace guards and activist groups. Some noble families use red in their banners to declare they will do everything they can to protect their own.   Within Tarot Lore, the connected cards are the Five and Six of Staves (Strife, Victory).  
Magenta
Associated with being aloof, dominating, but also with being a guardian from high up. The meanings originate from its primary use by royalty, due to its rarity and high costs. In many countries, using magenta and other forms of purple symbolizes a connection to royalty. It also is used by royal courts.   Within Tarot Lore, connected cards are the Two and Ten of Staves (Dominion, Oppression). Some associate it with the Six and Seven of Cups (Pleasure, Debauch), but royal disapproval keeps many scribes from daring to say so.  

Symbols

Quills
The Pen can be mightier than the Sword, and a sharp Quill can end a life figuratively the same way a sword can end it literally. Used by Royal Accountants, who track down tax evaders and have them held responsible for their crimes. In countries where the press doesn't risk persecution, they will use crossed Quills to indicate an eagerness to fight for the truth.  
Arrows
An alternative suit to defensive Staves, bow-and-arrow are also considered a defensive weapon. Not at individual level, more at entire community levels. Arrows are often painted on the shields and armors of local militia. In some countries, city gates will have large Arrows painted on them.  
Flames
Like Pentacles a symbol for quick wits, often in the form of passionate actions. The destructiveness of forest fires causes a negative view on Flames sometimes, and torch symbols are often associated with riots and rebellions. This hasn't stopped activist groups and lawyers from using Flames, indicating their smarts and willingness to fight for others.  
Roses
Solid willpower, protecting oneself and hurting those daring to fight them, Roses carry a stronger association than Cups. Where Cups are sometimes considered aloof, Roses are more associated with passionately standing up for yourself. Poets and actors use them as a profession symbol, and they sometimes appear in court, embroidered on the defendant's clothing.

Comments

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Dec 7, 2020 01:23 by Dr Emily Vair-Turnbull

I love that you've got colours that are also associated with Tarot. Admittedly, I don't know much about Tarot in real life, but the ideas and symbolism you've got here are fascinating.

Emy x   Etrea | Vazdimet
Dec 7, 2020 23:04 by Michael Chandra

Cheers! Symbols (alternative card suits) now added as well.


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