BODICE RIPPER Meaning and
Definition
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Bodice ripper, predominantly used as a noun, refers to a type of romantic fiction novel or story that gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s. The term originated from the vivid imagery often depicted on the cover art of these novels, which would often portray a passionate, seemingly forceful embrace between a male and female character, often with the female character's bodice being pulled or torn open. It is characterized by its focus on historical settings, primarily in the 19th century, and its dramatic and extravagant portrayal of romantic relationships.
The phrase "bodice ripper" has since transcended its original context and is now commonly used as a derogatory term to describe any work of fiction, regardless of genre, that features explicit or intense sexual content, often involving non-consensual or controversial scenarios. The term highlights the exaggerated and often unrealistic nature of these portrayals, where the female protagonist often falls prey to a male character who is portrayed as dominant and overpowering.
Despite the negative connotations associated with the term, bodice rippers continue to have a notable presence within the romance genre. They offer an often escapist and sensationalistic form of entertainment for readers seeking high drama, steamy encounters, and a fantasy-driven narrative. However, their portrayal of relationships and sexual encounters has drawn criticism over the years for perpetuating harmful stereotypes and promoting unhealthy power dynamics between men and women.
Common Misspellings for BODICE RIPPER
- vodice ripper
- nodice ripper
- hodice ripper
- godice ripper
- bidice ripper
- bkdice ripper
- bldice ripper
- bpdice ripper
- b0dice ripper
- b9dice ripper
- bosice ripper
- boxice ripper
- bocice ripper
- bofice ripper
- borice ripper
- boeice ripper
- boduce ripper
- bodjce ripper
- bodkce ripper
Etymology of BODICE RIPPER
The term "bodice ripper" originated in the mid-20th century and is commonly used to describe a particular genre of romance novel. Let's explore its etymology.
The word "bodice" refers to a close-fitting garment for women that covers the torso, similar to a corset. It was typically worn between the late 16th and early 20th centuries.
On the other hand, "ripper" derives from the verb "to rip", meaning to tear or to pull apart forcefully. This term became associated with the image of a hero or love interest in these novels, who would often engage in passionate encounters with the heroine, leading to the dramatic image of the bodice being ripped or torn apart during a moment of passion.
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