BIGENDIANS Meaning and
Definition
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Bigendians, in literature and cultural contexts, refer to a fictional religious sect or cultural group that originated from Jonathan Swift's satirical novel "Gulliver's Travels." In the book, published in 1726, Swift described a fictitious land called Lilliput, which was inhabited by two opposing groups: the Bigendians and the Littleendians.
The Bigendians represent a religious faction characterized by their disagreement over an inconsequential religious practice - whether boiled eggs should be opened at the larger or smaller end. This seemingly trivial dispute escalates to the extent that it leads to deep divisions and conflicts within their society.
Since its publication, the concept of Bigendians has been adopted and expanded upon as a metaphorical representation of societies that become embroiled in heated debates and conflicts over seemingly insignificant differences. It is often used to critique religious, political, or cultural groups that fiercely cling to specific rituals, norms, or ideologies without larger justification or purpose.
The term "Bigendians" is commonly invoked to highlight the absurdity and irrationality of conflicts fueled by uncompromising adherence to trivial matters. By emphasizing the consequences of such divisions and polarization, it serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of dogmatism and the potential negative impact it can have on society.
Outside of literary and cultural references, the term "Bigendians" is rarely used in everyday language. Its significance primarily lies in its metaphorical representation and critique of fanaticism, extremism, and the potential destructive influence of petty disputes.
Etymology of BIGENDIANS
The term "Bigendians" originates from the satirical novel "Gulliver's Travels" written by Jonathan Swift, which was published in 1726. In the book, the main character Lemuel Gulliver encounters two fictional nations in the land of Liliput: the Bigendians and the Lilliputians.
The term Bigendians specifically refers to a political and religious divide between two groups in Liliput. The conflict arises from a disagreement about how to properly open soft-boiled eggs. The Bigendians believe that eggs should be cracked on the larger end, while the opposing Lilliputians insist on cracking them on the smaller end.
