Trophies: The Absolute Marks Of Triumph

| Sunday, November 20, 2011
By Anne Farrell


Probably the ultimate symbol of success is a trophy. The regular setting is the bigger the trophy, the highest the accomplishment. From the biggest of contests, such as major sports events, to the smallest of matches, like a local elementary school's Spelling Bee contest, trophies are everywhere.

Trophy roughly means "to rout." It was actually derived from the Greek word "tropaion," which came from the verb "trope." Trophies were considered symbols of victory in war battles back in ancient Greece. People used to make them on the fields of victorious battles, with the bases carved with the details of the fight and an inscription to the god they believed assisted them in winning the battle.

As for the Romans during ancient times, trophies were kept close to homes. They were extremely large and were frequently placed on columns and arches instead of being an accolade to the victors and the gods on the battlefield.

Although not a great deal is known about its history during the Middle Ages, it is plain that they were presented in sporting events in the late 1600s. Silver goblets were the regular shapes used then, as well as two-handled sterling cups.

Although cups and chalices are still prevalent in this day and age, trophies now come in various types and sizes. More and more shapes are now being made, depending on the event, including stars, human and animal shapes, and abstract designs.

For mass production, materials used nowadays include steel, pewter, crystal, and plastic. They are a great deal less costly and can be mass produced.

Trophies aren't just given during sports competitions. They are also given in recognition of individual or group achievement. The Academy Awards, a renowned Hollywood awards events, is a great example. Individual skills like acting, directing and producing, as well as group efforts, such as best film and cast, are acknowledged with a trophy shaped like a human being.

A trophy is not just a reward for a particular achievement, be it in sports, acting, discovery, and other areas. It symbolizes triumph and status. Getting a trophy doesn't only mean being able to beat your adversaries in a game or being the leader in your area of expertise. It likewise means being part of the heritage that comes with the trophy.




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