Hood, Academic

A flowing, stylized hood that drapes over the shoulders and back of the wearer. It is an academic insignia. The wearer's academic degree and institution are indicated by the size, cut, and trim material of the hood. It was worn over the gown in medieval academic dress. Anglican preachers have worn the hood with scarf and gown for the sermon. This use could be seen as a display of academic credentials by the preacher. Some members of the clergy (especially with a low church piety) wore the hood, scarf, and gown throughout the service, following the Genevan practice. This practice continued into the late nineteenth century in the Episcopal Church. Although liturgical use of the academic gown is now rare, the academic hood (possibly with the tippet) is at times worn over the surplice for the Daily Office.