Roman identity and the labyrinth symbol

The meandering or labyrinthine symbol has had a universal appeal throughout history. The conceptual depiction of this figure can variously represent a journey with visible or invisible elements, entrapment or enlightenment, and sometimes both. It is instantly recognizable as embodying one or both of these aspects. As a symbol it has a quasi-universality that is flexible both in representation and meaning. The meandering figure is an integral part of many myths, religions and rituals. It can be as diverse in its meaning as: the entrapment of an enemy, a friend or a lover; used as a prison; a cure for physical or mental illness by entrapping an evil spirit or a good spirit to protect you. It can be a journey of enlightenment, of knowledge, of the soul, of the body or used as a test for reincarnation. For thousands of years the labyrinthine figure has meant many different things to many different people.