THOMAS CORNEILLE Meaning and
Definition
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Thomas Corneille (1625-1709) was a French playwright and poet who achieved fame during the classical period of French literature. He was the younger brother of the renowned French tragedian and playwright Pierre Corneille.
Thomas Corneille's contribution to French literature mainly lies in his work as a playwright. He was a prolific writer, producing numerous tragedies, comedies, and tragi-comedies. His plays often reflected the influence of his brother Pierre as well as the prevailing neoclassical ideals of the time. While Thomas Corneille's dramas were not nearly as successful or enduring as those of his brother, he nevertheless made a significant impact on the theatrical scene of his era.
In addition to his work in the theater, Thomas Corneille also tried his hand at various other literary genres, including poetry and prose. Although his writings are not considered groundbreaking or revolutionary, they demonstrate his knowledge and adherence to the stylistic principles of his time.
While Thomas Corneille's legacy may not be as prominent as that of his older brother, his contributions to French literature should not be overlooked. His work reflects the cultural and artistic milieu of the classical period and provides an insight into the development of French drama during that time.
Etymology of THOMAS CORNEILLE
The term "Thomas Corneille" does not have its own specific etymology since it is a combination of two distinct names.
The name "Thomas" has English and Greek roots. It originated from the Aramaic name "Toma" meaning "twin" or "double". It became popular due to the biblical figure Thomas, also known as "Doubting Thomas", who doubted Jesus' resurrection until he saw him firsthand.
The surname "Corneille" is of French origin and has a different etymology. It is derived from the Latin word "cornu", meaning "horn". In ancient times, this surname was often associated with someone who had physical or metaphorical qualities of a horn.
