Definition:
A “dunce cap” is a tall conical hat historically used as a form of punishment in schools.
Etymology:
The term “dunce” originates from the name of John Duns Scotus, a medieval Scottish scholar. His followers, known as Dunsmen or Dunses, were known for their resistance to new ideas in the Renaissance period, leading the term “dunce” to be associated with stubbornness and lack of intelligence. The word “cap” comes from the Old English “cæppe,” meaning a head covering.
Description:
The dunce cap is commonly depicted as a tall, pointed hat made of paper or cloth, often marked with the letter “D” for “dunce.” A dunce cap was typically placed on the head of a student who was perceived to be slow or lacking intelligence, often as a means of humiliation or discipline, along with forcing the kid to sit or stand in the corner of the classroom as a form of public humiliation. This was a method of indoctrinating kids to submit, commonly used in Western schools primarily during the 19th and early 20th century.
Symbolism:
The dunce cap symbolize shame.
The act of putting on a dunce cap has sexual symbolism as the head is placed in an opening.