The Symbolism of The Olympic Phryge
More on The Dark Enchantment of the Olympics
A few days ago, I shared my thoughts on the "Dark Enchantment of Olympia," where I explored the symbolism in Bacchanalia and Da Vinci’s Last Supper. That piece, originally posted on Facebook, quickly gained traction, with over 1.2K shares—an overwhelming response that underscores the resonance these ideas have found.
Since then, my reflections have turned to another intriguing element of the Olympics: the enigmatic mascot known as the Phryge. This symbol has sparked curiosity and confusion, and I believe it's essential to unravel its deeper meaning. Far from being a mere cute and whimsical symbol that the kids will love, the Phryge is a powerful emblem, laden with historical and symbolic significance. It aligns closely with the broader themes I’ve discussed—revolution, rejection of divine authority, and the subversion of Christian ideals.
In "Dark Enchantment of Olympia," I argued that the Olympic opening ceremonies were by-and-large being misunderstood, with most interpretations missing the deeper narrative. These ceremonies were not just entertainment; they were ceremonial acts, carefully orchestrated to convey messages about the host nation's identity and values. The symbols and imagery was and continues to be deliberate, designed to resonate on both conscious and subconscious levels.
To understand the Phryge, we must delve into its rich historical roots, which extend far beyond the French Revolution. The Phrygian cap, or "liberty cap," originated in ancient Rome, where it was a symbol of freed slaves. In Roman society, the cap, known as the pileus, was given to slaves upon their emancipation as a mark of their newfound freedom. It was a powerful symbol of liberation, of casting off chains, and stepping into the status of a free man. This ancient association with freedom was later adopted during the French Revolution, where the Phrygian cap became an icon of the fight against “tyranny” and “oppression”— which was Christianity.
During the Revolution, this cap was worn by revolutionaries to signify their defiance against the monarchy and the church, their quest for a secular society free from the old order. Paris 2024 Olympic President Tony Estanguet acknowledged this historical significance, stating, “We chose an ideal rather than an animal. For French people, it’s a very well-known object that is a symbol of freedom.” But this raises the question: freedom from what, and for what purpose?
The choice of the Phryge as the Olympic mascot is not merely an homage to French history; it is a deliberate invocation of this symbol's revolutionary history. The cap’s reappearance at the Olympics, a global event with immense cultural influence, serves as a reminder that these revolutionary ideals are still very much alive.
The symbolism of the Phryge has also crossed continents. In 1766, Paul Revere designed an obelisk for Boston Common to celebrate the repeal of the Stamp Act—a deeply unpopular British law taxing the American colonies. On this obelisk, a figure representing Liberty carries a Phrygian cap on a pole, symbolizing the colonies' fight against oppression. American revolutionaries embraced the cap as a symbol of their own struggle for independence. However, its association with the radical and violent phases of the French Revolution later made it a more controversial symbol in American politics which caused it to fall out of use.
In this broader historical context, the Phryge’s role in the Olympics becomes clear: it is a symbol of ongoing revolution. It is a call to challenge and overturn established orders—political, religious, and moral. The cap’s association with the revolutionaries in France underscores its power as an emblem of “freedom,” but also of upheaval and the rejection of authority, including divine authority.
Symbols, especially those worn on the head, are deeply significant. Just look at Saint Paul’s section on head coverings in 1 Corinthians 12. They represent identity, authority, and allegiance. The Phryge is not just a cute mascot; it is a statement, a cultural signal that aligns with a broader movement to redefine “freedom” as liberation from all forms of constraint—moral, spiritual, and societal.
The Olympics, viewed by millions worldwide, is more than just a sports competition; it is a cultural event that shapes public consciousness. The choice of the Phryge is not merely a nod to French history but a deliberate act of cultural messaging. It reflects a worldview that celebrates secular revolution over religious tradition, human autonomy over divine order.
As we consider the impact of such symbols, we must recognize that the battles of the past—between revolution and order, secularism and faith—are still being waged today. They are fought not with swords or guillotines but with symbols and narratives that subtly shape the minds and hearts of generations.