WW1, also known as the Great War, was a global conflict that shaped the remainder of the 20th century. With millions of lives lost and countless others affected, it is crucial to remember the sacrifices made.
In November, we remember those who died in WW1 and other wars on Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday.
We’ve designed this poster to help your students better understand the meaning behind some of the key symbols of remembrance.
Download the poster!
Poppies
One of the most enduring symbols of the remembrance of WW1 is the poppy. Poppies thrived in the churned-up battlefields of the Western Front and featured strongly in war poems. They later became a powerful symbol of remembering those who died in war.
In particular, they featured in the poignant ‘In Flanders Fields’ by John McCrae and it was thanks to this influential poem that they became so closely associated with the fields of Flanders in Belgium, where many battles took place.
The poem describes how the poppies continued to thrive amidst the destruction and loss of the battlefield, serving as a reminder of both the hope and the sacrifice of soldiers.
In many countries, poppies are today worn as a symbol of remembrance in the lead up to and on Armistice Day. The Royal British Legion’s annual poppy appeal, for instance, raises funds to support veterans and their families.
The poppy continues to hold a special place in our collective memory and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought and died in WW1.
Cenotaph
The cenotaph is another powerful symbol associated with the memory of WW1. The word ‘cenotaph’ is derived from the Greek words kenos (empty) and taphos (tomb) and so literally means ‘empty tomb’. A cenotaph is, therefore, a monument or ‘empty tomb’ erected in memory of the fallen soldiers whose remains are elsewhere – many were buried near where they fell, rather than being repatriated.
The best-known cenotaph is located in Whitehall, London, and is the site of the National Service of Remembrance held annually on Remembrance Sunday. This iconic memorial, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, stands as a solemn reminded of the sacrifices made by those who bravely fought and lost their lives in WW1.
Last Post
The Last Post is a military bugle call that holds great significance during remembrance ceremonies and military funerals. Originating from the British Army, it was traditionally played to signal the end of the day’s activities and has been adopted to symbolize the fallen soldiers’ final rest.
Today, the Last Post is performed as a heartfelt tribute to honour all those who have served and lost their lives in conflict. The hauntingly beautiful melody serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made and deeply resonates with people as they remember the fallen soldiers of WW1 and subsequent conflicts.
War Memorials
War memorials stand as physical structures that pay tribute to the soldiers who fought and died during WW1. They often serve as gathering places for remembrance ceremonies and as a focal point for communities to reflect on the sacrifices made.
These memorials can be found in various forms, such as statues, plaques or engraved walls. They are designed to be visually impactful and their locations are often carefully chosen to maximise their presence and significance. War memorials provide a tangible connection to the past, ensuring that the memories and stories of those who served and lost their lives in WW1 are never forgotten.
The symbols associated with the remembrance of WW1 serve as powerful reminders of the sacrifices and losses endured during this global conflict. The poppy, the cenotaph, the Last Post and war memorials all play a vital role in preserving the memory of the fallen soldiers of WW1. By understanding and appreciating these symbols, we ensure that future generations continue to remember and learn from this significant chapter in world history.
Thinking about a visit to the WW1 battlefields?
Our school trips to the WW1 battlefields of Ypres and the Somme can be completely tailored to suit your specific requirements and learning objectives.
We also recently launched a new WW1 Medical Aid school trip which offers your group the opportunity to experience the conditions on the Western Front, before following the evacuation route that a wounded British soldier would have taken.
Please don't hesitate to contact us for further information.
