Cross

Term: Cross
Method: Dialectical

Terms take meaning thanks in part to accident, through a gradual process of evolution by discourse. That's right, as we talk in general conversation, we define and we often do this by defining something by what it is not. This implicit kind of definition is the dialectic. But does this evolutionary process happen visually as well? A cross that frames the mother of the Lord of Peace is now decorative, but was once required for warfare. The embrasure provided archers with cover as they shot their arrows at attacking armies. The statue provided parishioners with hope and love as they enterred its church. To be embraced was and is to be protected, supported. Is the image cross? Are the historical definitions cross?