Do you know what the word October means? I don’t. So I consult the cyber oracle.
According to Wikipedia, October’s name comes from the Greek word “octo” meaning “eight”.
But why eight, when October is the tenth month?
Wikipedia enlightens: October may well be the tenth month in the Gregorian calendar we use nowadays. But in the old Roman calendar used previously, October was the eighth month. When the Gregorian Calendar was adopted, and January and February were added on, October became the tenth month but retained its old name.
No, I’m not going to investigate when the Gregorian Calendar was adopted because we’ll end up living in Wikipedia for the rest of our lives. But if you like you can find out and let me know, and while you’re at it let me know why it’s called Gregorian, not something else.
The painting you see here is entitled "October", and is from the 15th century illimunated manuscript "Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry". The painting depicts peasants tilling and sowing fields in the shadow of the Louvre – Charles V’s royal palace in Paris. The king, I presume, is inside munching bread and cakes.
What images does October conjure in your mind? Share your thoughts and feelings on October by leaving a comment.
Are there any pictures relating to October or Autumn that you’d like to share ? If so, send a reduced size copy of it to: calypsos.journalatgmail.com (replace at with @)
2 comments:
October reminds me of bulbs: freesia, tulips, daffodils. This year I'm planting crocus bulbs.
It also reminds me of Francesco from Assisi, 4th October. The month is just right because fields start becoming greener and nature seems 2 come 2 life.
October also reminds me of Mary who gave Christ to the world.
She experienced the joy of being close to God and the desolation of feeling injustice and abandonment. Yet through it all, she continued to believe.
Hi bufula,
what lovely reflections on October!
Calypso
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