The mediaeval misericords were carved by sixteenth century craftsmen and are thought to be some of the finest in Europe.  The name comes from the latin word for pity, 'misericordia', since out of pity for weary monks during long services, the seats have a ledge to give support to those leaning up against them.  Hidden on the underside of these seats are carvings of mediaeval tales and legends.

This workshop allows pupils to get up close to the mediaeval wood carvings in order to consider the symbolism and allegory that lies behind them.

Your pupils will

• Learn about pictorial symbolism and gain an understanding of the attributes given to both real animals and ‘"fantastic creatures"

• Look beyond the surface of pictorial representation to understand the deeper, hidden meanings and messages contained within.

• Undertake an analytical interpretation of the images on the Misericords.

• Design their own ‘composite' mythical beast, deciding on the attributes it is intended to represent and how those attributes can be effectively illustrated.

KEY STAGE: 2/3

CURRICULUM LINKS: English, History, RE, Art

VENUE: Cathedral

DURATION: 1hour 30minutes

MAXIMUM NUMBER: 30

COST PER PUPIL: £1.75