These hours had a specific purpose: to develop a relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary, so she may act as the reader’s intercessor in redemption. Mary, being human, understood the trials of mortality in a very human way. By asking her for aid, Mary could present the supplicant to Christ for his or her redemption and salvation. The opening text of the Hours of the Virgin commenced as follows.

Images within the Hours of the Virgin focus on either of the two cycles: the Life of the Virgin or the Passion of Christ. The Life of the Virgin is more prevalent of the two cycles, with the Passion Cycle being more common only in English manuscripts. (Backhouse, 4)

The images within both of these cycles are central to illuminated books of hours, as well as the bulk of medieval religious art. These depictions abound in all artistic mediums of the time. Due to the importance of these images, they deserve special attention. First, the cycle of the Life of the Virgin will be investigated, then the Passion Cycle will be addressed.