Theta nigrum
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The theta nigrum ("black theta") or theta infelix ("unlucky theta") is a symbol of death in Greek and Latin epigraphy.[1] Isidore of Seville notes the letter was appended after the name of a deceased soldier and finds of papyri containing military records have confirmed this use.[1] Additionally it can be seen in the Gladiator Mosaic.
The term theta nigrum was coined by Theodor Mommsen. It consists of a circle with a diagonal line. The Theta signified Thanatos, the Greek deity of death.[2]
See also[]
- "ꝋ" for "obiit" (="died")
References[]
- ^ a b Mednikarova, Iveta. "The Use of Θ in Latin Funerary Inscriptions". Zeitschrift für Papyrologie und Epigraphik. 136: 267–76.
- ^ A Dictionary of Latin Phrases
Categories:
- Cultural aspects of death
- Symbols
- Epigraphy
- Greek letters
- Death stubs