Unicorns are mythical creatures that have fascinated humankind for centuries. Though commonly depicted as majestic horses with a single spiral horn protruding from their foreheads, the legend of the unicorn also has intriguing ties to female virtues and purity. So why exactly do we refer to rare, admirable women as ‘female unicorns’? Let’s explore the history and symbolism behind the unicorn to better understand this modern metaphor.
The Origins of the Unicorn Myth
Stories of unicorn-like creatures date back to ancient China, India, and Greece. The unicorn was described as a powerful, graceful creature that was elusive and nearly impossible to catch. Some of the earliest unicorn legends highlight themes of purity, innocence, and feminine grace.
In China, the unicorn was called the qilin and seen as a positive omen symbolizing prosperity, serenity, and wisdom. The qilin was delicate yet strong and believed to appear right before the birth or passing of a great ruler. In Indian mythology, the unicorn was equated with purity and often associated with divine virgin goddesses. The most popular tale described the unicorn being so entranced by purity that it was easily lured into the lap of a virgin. The Greek historian Ctesias wrote vivid accounts of commanding unicorns in India, describing them as wild donkeys with white bodies, purple heads, and dark blue eyes. To Ctesias, they represented untamed beauty and power.
The Unicorn in Medieval Lore
During the Middle Ages, unicorn myths flourished across Europe. The unicorn was frequently depicted in medieval art, literature, and royal iconography. Christian interpretations presented the unicorn as a symbol of Christ, its horn representing the unity of Jesus as both human and divine. The creature’s elusiveness and Lamb of God-like gentleness were viewed as Christ-like attributes. Tales of virgin saints calmly converting savage unicorns reinforced this religious symbolism.
Secular medieval lore also emphasized the unicorn’s affinity for virgin women. One popular story proclaimed that unicorn horns possessed healing powers that could counteract poison, but the creature could only be caught when lured into a virgin’s lap. This notion of virgin purity activating the unicorn’s powers reinforced idealized feminine virtues of the era. Royalty and nobility embraced the unicorn in heraldry, highlighting its relation to righteousness and marital fidelity.
Unicorns in the Modern Age
Unicorns remain ubiquitous in fairy tales, fantasy novels, and children’s media today. Popular culture has moved away from viewing unicorns as religious icons towards portraying them as whimsical, magical companions that offer wisdom to young heroines. Unicorns feature prominently in toys, cartoons, and merchandise marketed towards girls. The association with feminine innocence persists but is less focused on virginity specifically.
As a rare mythical creature strongly linked to grace, purity, and femininity for centuries, the unicorn’s appeal endures. The “unicorn” metaphor reflects the persisting legend of exceptional, almost fantastical feminine virtues.
Why “Female Unicorns” Stand Out
So how does this relate to calling a woman a “female unicorn”? Here are some of the key traits and accomplishments that earn a woman this legendary moniker:
Rare Success in Male-Dominated Fields
In modern slang, “female unicorn” often refers to women who thrive in realms traditionally dominated by men. For instance, a powerhouse female CEO may be described as a unicorn for succeeding in the male-centered business world. Unicorns in male-dominated STEM fields like engineering and tech are also increasingly highlighted. Just as unicorns of myth were considered rare and magical creatures, a woman standing out in arenas historically filled by men earns unicorn status.
Breaking Gender Stereotypes
Along with entering male spaces, modern female unicorns also tend to break traditional gender stereotypes. A mechanic who loves restoring classic cars or a flamboyant, confident woman unapologetic about feminine expression may be dubbed a unicorn for boldly defying conventions. Like the unicorn’s combination of strength and grace, these women blend socially contradictory traits in pioneering ways. Their rare, against-the-grain approaches earn them recognition as magical outliers.
Inspirational Multi-Hyphenates
Women described as unicorns often have an impressive mix of talents and passions mastered to success. She may be a social media influencer who taught herself to code and invests in startups while hosting a feminist podcast and publishing books of poetry. This ability to pursue varied interests and professional paths makes her stand out from the herd. Just as the mythical unicorn possessed many gifts, from healing powers to spiritual wisdom, the modern female unicorn amazes others with her versatility.
The Ongoing Quest for Equality
While the “female unicorn” label intends to acknowledge women’s special skills and accomplishments, it has some problematic implications. The metaphor still conveys that women excelling in certain areas or displaying certain traits are as rare as mythical creatures. This reflects the persisting gender barriers and double standards women face in many realms of life. So while the unicorn title spotlights inspiring role models, it also highlights the work still needed to normalize women’s success in all fields.
Some women also push back against the unicorn designation, feeling it suggests they are an oddity among their gender for pursuing their ambitions or interests. They emphasize that women achieving highly or breaking molds should be the norm, not a rare exception. Others see “unicorn” as a diminishing term that commodifies talented women by presenting them as almost fictional curiosities instead of simply spotlighting their skills.
So while comparing a pioneering, multi-talented woman to a magical unicorn can seem celebratory, the metaphor has its downsides. Rethinking assumptions around female rarity and using more empowering language may better highlight women’s diverse skills and potential. The legendary unicorn captures centuries of idealized feminine virtues and exceptionalism. But women establishing their talents should simply become part of the norm, not mythical outliers.
Conclusion
The unicorn has been a revered, mythological symbol of grace, purity, and feminine virtues for ages. Calling a woman a “female unicorn” in modern times acknowledges her rare talents and boundary-breaking accomplishments in a culture where male dominance persists in many realms. However, this well-intended metaphor still has roots in assumptions around female rarity and gender limitations. Moving forward, we must normalize the idea of women excelling in all arenas until the concept of a “unicorn” woman becomes obsolete.