The Evolution of the Heart Symbol

The Evolution of the Heart Symbol

Assessment

Interactive Video

History

9th - 10th Grade

Hard

Created by

Emma Peterson

FREE Resource

The video explores the evolution of the heart symbol, initially used as a stand-in for love and the human heart, despite not resembling the actual organ. It traces the symbol's origins back to 3000 BC, where it represented ivy or fig leaves. The heart became associated with love centuries later, even though its true form was unknown due to restrictions on autopsies. Artists depicted it in various forms, and by the time of Leonardo Da Vinci's anatomical drawings, the simplified heart symbol was already established. It gained popularity in both religious and secular contexts, eventually becoming a verb in New York City's 1977 campaign. Today, the heart symbol is ubiquitous in romantic contexts and beyond, demonstrating its enduring and versatile nature.

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6 questions

Show all answers

1.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What did the early heart-like shapes represent around 3000 BC?

The human heart

Ivy or fig leaves

Religious symbols

Love and affection

2.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

Why were early artists unable to accurately depict the human heart?

No access to medical texts

The heart was considered a mystical organ

Prohibition of autopsies by the Catholic Church

Lack of interest in anatomy

3.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

Which famous artist's anatomical drawings appeared in the early 16th century?

Donatello

Michelangelo

Raphael

Leonardo Da Vinci

4.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

In which century did the simplified heart symbol become popular?

16th century

15th century

14th century

13th century

5.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

What was the impact of New York City's 1977 campaign on the heart symbol?

It turned the heart symbol into a verb

It was banned in advertisements

It was used in medical contexts

It became a religious icon

6.

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION

30 sec • 1 pt

Where can the heart symbol be found in modern times?

In ancient manuscripts

In video games, social media, and health ads

Exclusively in Valentine's Day cards

Only in romantic contexts