Innocence
Innocence (or guiltlessness) is a term used to indicate a lack of guilt, with respect to any kind of crime, sin, or wrongdoing. In a legal context, innocence refers to the lack of legal guilt of an individual, with respect to a crime.
Contents |
[edit] Symbolism
The lamb is a commonly used symbol of innocence. In Christianity, for example, Jesus is referred to as the "Lamb of God", thus emphasizing his sinless nature.[1] Other symbols of innocence include children, virgins, acacia branches (especially in Freemasonry),[2] non-sexual nudity, and the color white.[3]
[edit] Loss of innocence
A "loss of innocence" is a common theme in fiction and pop culture, and is often seen as an integral part of coming of age. It is usually thought of as an experience or period in a child's life that widens their awareness of evil, pain or suffering in the world around them. Examples of this theme include the song "American Pie"[4] and the novels To Kill a Mockingbird, The Catcher in the Rye, and Lord of the Flies.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
 |
This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (May 2010) |
- ^ Paton, Chalmers Izett (1873). Freemasonry: Its Symbolism, Religious Nature, and Law of Perfection. Reeves and Turner. pp. 232–240.
- ^ The Numismatist. American Numismatic Association. 1901. p. 177.
- ^ The Encyclopedia Americana: A Library of Universal Knowledge. Encyclopedia Americana Corp.. 1918. p. 329.
- ^ Saul Levitt. "Interpretation of American Pie - analysis, news, Don McLean, Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, Rock & Roll". Missamericanpie.co.uk. http://www.missamericanpie.co.uk/interpret.html. Retrieved 2011-02-16.
