DITHYRAM Meaning and
Definition
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A "dithyram" is a term stemming from ancient Greece, referring to a form of rhythmic and ecstatic poetic or musical expression. It originated in the context of religious festivals celebrating the god Dionysus, the Greek deity associated with wine, revelry, and emotional liberation. The dithyramb was typically performed by a chorus, consisting of a group of individuals who would sing and dance while expressing fervent emotions and profound meanings.
The dithyramb is characterized by its ecstatic nature, with participants often entering a euphoric trance-like state, allowing them to express emotions and ideas that transcend traditional societal norms. It utilizes lively and impassioned language, often employing hyperbole and dramatic imagery to convey intense feelings or profound truths.
Traditionally, the dithyramb consisted of a hymn in praise of Dionysus, recounting the god's mythical stories and extolling his virtues or attributes. Over time, the form evolved and became more complex, incorporating dramatic elements, eventually leading to the emergence of Greek drama as we know it today.
Today, the term "dithyramb" may also be used more broadly to describe any poetic, literary, or musical work that exhibits similar characteristics of fervor, intensity, and emotional expression. It is often regarded as a precursor to the development of various art forms that emphasize the exploration of human emotions, the subconscious mind, and the boundary-breaking capabilities of artistic expression.
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• Song in honour of Bacchus, imitating the wildness of intoxication; a poem written in a wild irregular strain.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DITHYRAM
- dithyramb
- dithiramb
- sithyram
- xithyram
- cithyram
- fithyram
- rithyram
- eithyram
- duthyram
- djthyram
- dkthyram
- dothyram
- d9thyram
- d8thyram
- dirhyram
- difhyram
- dighyram
- diyhyram
- di6hyram
- di5hyram
Etymology of DITHYRAM
The word "dithyramb" derives from the Ancient Greek word "dithurambos" (διθύραμβος). The exact etymology of "dithurambos" is uncertain, but it likely has a combination of two components.
The prefix "di-" in Greek often denotes duality or doubling, indicating two things. The second part of the word, "thurambos", is more complex. Some theories propose that "thurambos" is connected to the Greek verb "thureo", which means "to rush" or "to run wildly". Thus, "dithurambos" could be understood as "running or moving in two different ways".
However, other hypotheses consider "thurambos" to be associated with the Greek word "thurós", which denotes a musical instrument, possibly a double-reed pipe.
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