The Symbols and Icons of Death

An Introduction to symbols and icons as they are used today and how they came to have meaning in relation to death and dying. An examination of the ultimate symbol of death and how and why that is. Bringing attention
to cultural and religious impacts, how some symbols and icons are globally understood while others are culturally specific, and how that applies to Canada and the United States of America. Introducing participants to the four categories of death-related symbols and icons and how they exist within modern culture. Concluding with investigation into the personification of death as a symbol in modern society.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the history and reason for modern death iconography
2. Examine how iconographic items in the funeral industry resonate with
the general public
3. Compare the psychological need to personify death with the
prevalence of death anxiety