BOWDLERIZED Meaning and
Definition
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Bowdlerized is an adjective that refers to the act of censoring or altering a literary work, removing or toning down any aspect considered offensive, obscene, or inappropriate for certain audiences. The term comes from the surname of Thomas Bowdler, an Englishman who published an expurgated edition of Shakespeare’s plays in the early 19th century aimed at making them more suitable for family reading. This created a controversy, as Bowdler's modifications were seen by some as an offensive attempt to sanitize the works of one of history's greatest playwrights.
The concept of bowdlerization extends beyond literature and can be applied to any form of media or content subject to censorship or alteration. The process usually consists of removing or altering sections of a text or artwork that are considered vulgar, offensive, violent, or otherwise objectionable, with the intention of making it more appropriate or acceptable for a particular audience. The bowdlerized version may be seen as a sanitized or watered-down version of the original work, often losing its intended impact or message in the process.
While bowdlerization can be seen as a protective measure to shield sensitive audiences from certain content, it is also controversial as it can be seen as limiting artistic expression or altering historical accuracy. Critics argue that it intrudes upon the artistic integrity of the original creator and can hinder the understanding and appreciation of cultural and historical contexts.
Common Misspellings for BOWDLERIZED
Etymology of BOWDLERIZED
The word "Bowdlerized" comes from the name Thomas Bowdler, an English physician and editor. It is derived from the verb "Bowdlerize", which means to remove, censor, or modify content that is considered improper, offensive, or obscene.
Thomas Bowdler was known for his work on a heavily edited version of William Shakespeare's plays, called "The Family Shakespeare". Published in 1807, it was intended to be a more suitable and morally acceptable version of the plays for general readership. Bowdler made significant modifications, removing or altering content that he considered indecent or offensive.
Due to the extensive editing and censorship, Bowdler's name became associated with the act of expurgation or sanitization. Over time, the term "Bowdlerize" came to be used more broadly to describe the editing or censoring of any work by removing or modifying elements considered objectionable.
Conjugate verb Bowdlerized
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