Variable Interpretation of Memento Mori

1. What is the deeper meaning of memento mori?
2. What are the elements of memento mori?
3. Is memento mori positive or negative?
4. What is the point of creating a momento mori?

What is the deeper meaning of memento mori?

“Memento Mori,” or translated in English, “Remember you must die.” The point of this reminder isn't to be morbid or promote fear, but to inspire, motivate and clarify. The idea has been central to art, philosophy, literature, architecture, and more throughout history.

What are the elements of memento mori?

Memento mori is a Latin phrase meaning 'remember you must die'. A basic memento mori painting would be a portrait with a skull but other symbols commonly found are hour glasses or clocks, extinguished or guttering candles, fruit, and flowers. Closely related to the memento mori picture is the vanitas still life.

Is memento mori positive or negative?

'Memento mori' can prompt you to take action, and to avoid needlessly wasting the precious time that you have. 'Memento mori' can help you put your problems in perspective. 'Memento mori' can help you cherish every moment in life and feel gratitude toward what you have.

What is the point of creating a momento mori?

To help men remember death, artists created paintings, sculptures, and mosaics depicting skulls, skeletons, and other symbols of death. Churches would display memento mori art to compel viewers to meditate on death, reflect on their lives, and re-dedicate themselves to preparing to meet God.