Here's a breakdown of the symbolism:
* Shield: Traditionally, shields represented protection and defense. In this context, the shield could symbolize Harvard's role as a protector of knowledge and a defender of intellectual freedom.
* Open Books: These represent the pursuit of knowledge and the importance of scholarship at Harvard. The open books suggest that knowledge is accessible and that the university encourages its students to explore and engage with it.
* Stacked Books: The three books stacked on top of each other symbolize the hierarchy of knowledge and the cumulative nature of learning. It implies that knowledge is built upon past discoveries and that learning is an ongoing process.
The Harvard symbol, like many university symbols, is a powerful representation of the institution's values and aspirations. It serves as a reminder of the university's dedication to scholarship, intellectual curiosity, and the pursuit of knowledge.