FEMININE ENDING Meaning and
Definition
-
A feminine ending is a term used in poetic meter to describe a line of verse that ends in an unstressed syllable. In this particular context, "feminine" refers to the unstressed nature of the final syllable, contrasting with the stress typically found at the end of a line.
In many traditional poetry forms, such as iambic pentameter, lines generally end with a stressed syllable. This creates a strong sense of closure and rhythmic structure. However, when the final syllable of a line is unstressed, it is said to have a feminine ending. This phenomenon alters the overall rhythm and tone of the poetic line.
The concept of a feminine ending dates back to classical and medieval poetry, where it was commonly used. It often served a metrical purpose, providing variation and adding a touch of lightness or musicality to the verse. The existence of feminine endings also allowed poets to introduce additional syllables without altering the line's meter.
In some instances, a feminine ending can be a departure from the established meter and create a sense of surprise or disruption in the poem. It can also be used strategically to emphasize particular words or ideas by breaking the expected rhythmic pattern. Thus, the use of feminine endings can greatly contribute to the overall artistic effect and meaning of a poem, highlighting the versatility and creativity of poetic expression.
Etymology of FEMININE ENDING
The term "feminine ending" originates from the field of poetry and literary analysis. Specifically, it refers to a metrical device used in verse, where the final syllable of a line is an unstressed syllable. This unstressed syllable is called a "feminine ending", contrasting with a stressed syllable at the end of a line, referred to as a "masculine ending".
The term "feminine ending" dates back to at least the 19th century, and it derives from the association of unstressed syllables with femininity, while stressed syllables were associated with masculinity. This gendered distinction was likely influenced by the grammatical concept of feminine and masculine forms in poetry. It is important to note that the gendered aspect of these terms has been subject to criticism in modern linguistic discourse, as it perpetuates traditional gender norms that may not necessarily reflect contemporary views.
