Pronunciation: [ɛɡzˈɛmpləm] (IPA) 
Exemplum is a Latin word that refers to an example or a model. Its spelling follows the traditional Latin pronunciation, which uses the letter "x" to represent the sound "ks" at the beginning of a word. The first syllable is pronounced "ex" with the short "e" sound as in "bed" and the second syllable is pronounced "em" with the short "e" sound as in "let." The IPA phonetic transcription of exemplum is /ɪɡˈzɛmpləm/.
Exemplum, derived from the Latin word "exemplum" meaning "example," refers to a literary device used to convey a moral or illustrate a point through the use of a brief narrative or story. It is a rhetorical technique commonly employed in literature, particularly during the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods.
An exemplum typically appears as a short anecdote, parable, or fable embedded within a broader narrative or as a standalone tale. It serves to provide the reader with a relatable and concrete example that elucidates a moral, religious, or ethical lesson. By presenting a specific situation or set of characters, an exemplum aims to clarify abstract ideas, draw parallels to real-life circumstances, and instruct the audience on proper behavior or decision-making.
Exempla often feature recognizable archetypes such as noble knights, cunning tricksters, or virtuous maidens, and they frequently employ allegorical elements to convey deeper meaning. These stories can be derived from a variety of sources, including folklore, mythology, religious texts, and historical accounts.
Throughout history, exempla have been used by writers, philosophers, and religious figures to engage, entertain, and teach their audiences. They offer a vivid and tangible vehicle for conveying complex moral concepts, allowing readers to better understand and remember the intended message.
Overall, exemplum is a literary device that uses short narratives or stories as examples to convey moral lessons, making them an essential component of didactic and allegorical literature.
The word "exemplum" comes from Latin. Its root is the verb "exemplum" or "exempliāre", meaning "to copy" or "to imitate". The noun "exemplum" is derived from this verb and originally referred to something that was worth imitating, such as a model, pattern, or example. In Latin, "exemplum" was used to describe both concrete and abstract examples, and it could also mean a story used for moral or illustrative purposes. The term has remained relatively unchanged in its usage and meaning throughout its journey from Latin to English.
