Talk:Cultural History of Mazes
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| − | What is a Maze? [Feel free to skip over this next section that was mostly written by Nick] | ||
| − | (mostly excerpts from the listserv) | ||
| − | [on definitions of mazes and distinctions from labyrinth] | ||
| − | One objection to calling the output a maze is the lack of a solution or single correct path through this visual pattern. However, the definitions of maze include: | ||
| − | The OED lists two related senses, the first of which requires that there is *exactly* one correct path, the second of which has no such requirement: | ||
| − | II. A labyrinth, and related senses. | ||
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| − | 4. a. A structure designed as a puzzle, consisting of a complicated network of winding and interconnecting paths or passages, only one of which is the correct route through; a labyrinth; (occas. in pl.) the windings of a labyrinth. Also (as in quot. 1903): a structure comprising two points joined by a single winding line much greater in length than the direct line between the two points. | ||
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| − | b. In extended use: a complex network of paths or streets; a bewildering mass of things (material or immaterial), in which the individual components are difficult to separate or make out. | ||
| − | In the 16th and 17th centuries often in to tread a maze, perh. with | ||
| − | allusion to sense 5. | ||
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| − | There are quotations for the second of these senses from 1531 to 1994, | ||
| − | including: | ||
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| − | 1542 H. BRINKELOW Lamentacion sig. Cviii, Leadyng them in an endlesse | ||
| − | Maze of dyrtye tradicyons and folish ceremonyes. | ||
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| − | So, there is an early occurrence of a maze which presumably (being endless) has no correct path through it ... and furthermore, it is endless. | ||
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| − | The relevant definition from the 1913 Webster's Revised Unabridged | ||
| − | Dictionary is: | ||
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| − | 3. A confusing and baffling network, as of paths or passages; an intricacy; a labyrinth. Quaint mazes on the wanton green." Shak. | ||
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| − | Or down the tempting maze of Shawford brook. Wordaworth. | ||
| − | The ways of Heaven are dark and intricate, Puzzled with mazes, and | ||
| − | perplexed with error. Addison. | ||
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| − | Syn. -- Labyrinth; intricacy. See Labyrinth. | ||
| − | Again, nothing there requires that the maze have a solution. | ||
