Neapolitan fever is a medical term used to refer to brucellosis, a bacterial infection caused by Brucella species. The word "Neapolitan" is pronounced /ni.əˈpɒlətən/ with stress on the third syllable. It is spelled with a "P" and "L" despite sounding like "B" and "R" due to the evolution of the word from its Latin origin "Neapolis." The word "fever" is straightforwardly spelled as /ˈfiːvər/ with the stress on the first syllable. The term is named after Naples, Italy, where the bacterium causing the disease was first isolated.
Neapolitan fever refers to a cultural and musical movement that emerged in Naples, Italy, during the 18th and 19th centuries. It encompassed various art forms, literature, poetry, and music, particularly the distinctive style of traditional Neapolitan songs. The term "fever" functions metaphorically, indicating the passion, enthusiasm, and fervor the Neapolitans had for their cultural heritage.
Neapolitan fever was characterized by the celebration and promotion of Neapolitan culture and traditions. It aimed at preserving and showcasing the unique identity of the city and its people. The movement allowed for the expression of the local language, customs, and folk traditions, which had a profound influence on the Neapolitan dialect and cultural identity.
One of the most notable aspects of Neapolitan fever was its association with traditional Neapolitan songs, known as "canzoni napoletane" or "Neapolitan songs." These songs often depicted tales of love, longing, and life in Naples. They became a significant part of the Italian musical heritage and gained popularity both within and outside of Italy.
Neapolitan fever contributed to a heightened national consciousness and pride among the Neapolitans, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. It played a crucial role in defining and promoting the Neapolitan cultural identity, including their regional dialect, artistic expressions, and historical traditions. Even today, Neapolitan fever continues to influence the cultural landscape of Naples by inspiring artists, musicians, and writers to create works that reflect the spirit and essence of this rich and vibrant cultural movement.
Undulant fever.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "Neapolitan fever" is a hybrid phrase that combines two different origins.
1. "Neapolitan": The word "Neapolitan" refers to something from or related to the city of Naples, which is located in southern Italy. The term "Neapolitan" itself dates back to the 17th century and originates from the Italian word "napolitano", meaning "of Naples".
2. "Fever": The word "fever" has Latin origins and comes from the Latin word "febris", meaning "fever" or "intense heat". It has been used to describe an elevated body temperature or an intense state of excitement or passion.
The combination of "Neapolitan" and "fever" is likely a metaphorical expression that represents intense excitement or passion, often associated with the vibrant and passionate nature of the people from Naples.