Graduation

Last Friday we were privileged to attend the graduation of our son. As well as being immensely proud I was interested in the custom of wearing gowns, hoods and mortar boards. This custom originated in the middle ages when scholars wore gowns to identify them. As universities at the time were church institutions the gowns were similar to those worn by clerics. The hoods were originally worn as such but with hats and wigs becoming more popular they were worn draped down the back.
The styles and colours denote the university and the level of qualification gained.