The genus Viola encompasses a diverse group of flowering plants, including Violets and the larger Pansies. These blooms have been cultivated for centuries and are found across temperate regions worldwide. The Viola genus has garnered a complex system of symbolic meaning throughout human history. This interpretation, drawn from their appearance, fragrance, and color, positions the Viola as an understated floral messenger.
The Primary Meanings of the Viola
The most enduring symbolism associated with the Viola is that of modesty and humility. This meaning is largely inspired by the plant’s physical characteristics, as its delicate, often drooping flowers tend to nestle beneath heart-shaped leaves, seemingly hiding their beauty. This understated presentation led to the association of the Violet, in particular, with the virtue of quiet simplicity. Christian traditions later reinforced this symbolism, associating the Viola odorata with the humility and devotion of the Virgin Mary.
Beyond modesty, the Viola is strongly linked to the concepts of faithfulness and enduring affection. Ancient Greeks used the flowers in love potions, believing they fostered loyalty and steadfastness between partners. This idea of fidelity is further supported by the flower’s ability to bloom even in shaded or challenging conditions, symbolizing a love that remains true.
Another significant meaning is remembrance, which often carries a somber or reflective tone. The flower’s ephemeral nature acts as a reminder of life’s transitory moments and the memory of those who are gone. This connection to remembrance and reflection makes the Viola a traditional choice for honoring the deceased and conveying heartfelt sympathy.
Symbolism by Color Variation
The specific hue of the Viola significantly modifies its symbolic message, allowing for nuanced communication. The deep purple of the most common varieties is often associated with a thoughtful or romantic disposition, representing deep affection and loyalty. Purple violets can also signify thoughts occupied with love, and in some contexts, can express nostalgia or the sorrow of passing love.
White Violas represent innocence, purity, and sincerity. This color variation is frequently linked to emerging love or a first, pure affection, and can convey a message of glistening hope. Historically, the white Viola has been used to symbolize the chastity of the recipient.
Yellow and orange hues, more common in Pansies (Viola tricolor), carry messages of joy, happiness, and lightheartedness. A yellow Viola can specifically communicate the message of “thoughts” or the delight of friendship. The brighter orange variety is sometimes interpreted as the expression of intense, growing desire.
Blue Violas are closely tied to the idea of fidelity and truthfulness, often symbolizing vigilance and watchfulness. The color blue emphasizes a promise of eternal faithfulness and loyalty within a relationship. Pink Violas, which are rarer, can denote innocence, sweetness, and gratitude, while also symbolizing loyalty in love.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Viola symbolism has been deeply embedded in cultural practices, particularly during the Victorian era. The Victorian practice of floriography, or the language of flowers, relied heavily on the Viola to send coded messages that societal etiquette forbade. A gift of a blue Violet or Sweet Violet was a silent promise conveying, “I’ll always be true to you” or “modesty.”
The Pansy, a close relative, also translated to “thoughts” or “you occupy my thoughts” in floriography. The placement and condition of the flower in a nosegay, such as holding it at heart level, would confirm the message of deep, faithful love. This silent communication allowed individuals to express longing, devotion, and promises without uttering a word.
The Viola holds a prominent place in mythology and literature, most notably in Greek tradition. One myth recounts that the flowers were created by Zeus from the tears of the nymph Io after his jealous wife, Hera, transformed Io into a heifer. The violets served as a sweet food source for Io, associating the flower with comfort and hope.
In literature, William Shakespeare used the Viola to symbolize sorrow and the loss of faithfulness in Hamlet, where Ophelia laments that her violets withered upon her father’s death. The Viola was also the personal emblem of Napoleon Bonaparte, who wore them as a symbol of loyalty to his wife, Josephine. He used them as a secret code for his supporters during his exile and return from Elba, as the flower’s appearance in spring symbolized return and success.