Cornette

Cornette is a type of headgear traditionally worn by women of the Catholic Church. It was most commonly associated with the religious habit of women in certain orders of nuns, particularly in the past. The cornette is characterized by its unique shape, which includes a piece of cloth that drapes over the wearer's head and flows down the back, often resembling a cornet or horn, hence its name. This headpiece was especially prominent in the 19th and early 20th centuries but fell out of favor and was largely abandoned following the modernizations of the Church in the 1960s, particularly after the Second Vatican Council.

History and Usage

The Cornette originated in Europe and became an integral part of the religious attire for several Catholic orders, including the Daughters of Charity founded by Saint Vincent de Paul in the 17th century. The design and form of the cornette varied slightly between different orders and geographical locations, but its primary purpose remained the same: to cover the head as a sign of modesty and dedication to God.

In the 1960s, the Catholic Church underwent significant changes in its practices and attitudes towards religious attire with the Second Vatican Council. The council encouraged a simplification of religious life, including the modernization of the habit. As a result, many orders began to abandon the cornette in favor of simpler veils or even secular clothing, marking a significant shift in the visual identity of religious women.

Cultural Impact

The cornette has left a lasting impression on popular culture, particularly through the figure of the "flying nun," a character archetype based on the idea that the wide, wing-like sides of the cornette could allow a nun to take flight. This concept was popularized by the 1960s television series The Flying Nun, starring Sally Field. Despite its humorous premise, the show highlighted the distinctive silhouette of the cornette and its recognition as a symbol of nunhood.

Modern Times

Today, the cornette is rarely seen outside of historical reenactments or museums. Some traditionalist communities may still wear the cornette, but these are exceptions rather than the rule. The abandonment of the cornette reflects broader trends within the Catholic Church towards engaging with the modern world while maintaining the core aspects of faith and dedication.

See Also

• Religious habit
• Daughters of Charity
• Second Vatican Council
• Catholic Church