The Triple Spiral at Newgrange: Historical Research of its Signifigance and Implications for Art Therapy
Graduation Date
Spring 2011
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
Degree Granting Institution
Notre Dame de Namur University
Program Name
Art Therapy
Dean
Lisa Bjerknes, MD, MBA
First Reader
Laury Rappaport, PhD, ATR-BC
Second Reader
Richard Carolan, EdD, ATR-BC
Abstract
The Irish are a people of symbols. This work of historical research sought to answer the following questions: 1). What is the significance and meaning of the image of the triple spiral at Newgrange and 2). What are the implications of the meaning of the triple spiral for art therapy? Research showed the significance of the triple spiral to the Irish people and of the symbol to psychology and Art Therapy. The triple spiral is a symbol of both death and rebirth within the Irish culture. Further study is needed to understand and utilize the symbol in psychology and Art Therapy.