Symbol of death, dark powers, Devil
Throughout Europe, the grim reaper is a personification of death. The grim reaper is usually depicted as a skeleton with a scythe in one hand and an hourglass in the other in most of these civilizations. The scythe represents a life cut short. The skeleton sometimes, but not always, wears a cape. The Grim Reaper sign evolved from a skeletal figure known as the mow-man in the Netherlands. During the Middle Ages, this figure became more Christianized, with the addition of a robe and a scythe. The figure was popular during the Middle Ages during the Danse Macabre era of painting. This piece of art represented the fact that everyone, regardless of their social level, dies. Billhook or Death are the nickname given to the Grim Reaper in Smyrna. The Devil and dark powers are represented by the Grim Reaper. Scandinavians had Hel, the goddess of death, but later added the Grim Reaper to their pantheon. Ingmar Bergman’s film The Seventh Seal is the most iconic portrayal of the Grim Reaper in modern times. Throughout history, the Grim Reaper has appeared on book covers and album covers.