ECSTROPHE Meaning and
Definition
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Ecstrophe refers to a rhetorical technique employed in poetry and prose that involves the turning point or reversal of events in a narrative, or a sudden shift in direction or perspective. This term is derived from the Greek word "ekstrephein," which means to turn around. Ecstrophe denotes an important moment in a literary work where the plot takes an unexpected or dramatic turn, altering the course of events and often leading to a resolution or climax.
In literature, ecstrophe can be seen as the counterpart to "catastrophe," which signifies a tragic or disastrous turn of events. While catastrophe often marks a negative and ruinous outcome, ecstrophe tends to signal a positive or transformative change. This technique is employed by writers to create suspense, surprise, or anticipation, as well as to add complexity and depth to the narrative structure.
Ecstrophe can manifest in various ways, including changes in character's intentions or motivations, the introduction of new information, or the emergence of unforeseen circumstances. It can also involve a shift in the emotional or psychological state of a character, leading to their personal growth or transformation. Through ecstrophe, writers aim to captivate and engage the reader, keeping them absorbed in the narrative by introducing unexpected twists or revelations.
Overall, ecstrophe is a significant literary tool that enables writers to bring about pivotal changes in a story, providing excitement and tension while propelling the narrative towards its conclusion.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ECSTROPHE
- wcstrophe
- scstrophe
- dcstrophe
- rcstrophe
- 4cstrophe
- 3cstrophe
- exstrophe
- evstrophe
- efstrophe
- edstrophe
- ecatrophe
- ecztrophe
- ecxtrophe
- ecdtrophe
- ecetrophe
- ecwtrophe
- ecsrrophe
- ecsfrophe
- ecsgrophe
- ecsyrophe
Etymology of ECSTROPHE
The term "ecstrophe" originates from the Greek word "ekstrophē", which is a combination of the prefix "ek", meaning "out" or "away", and the word "strophe", meaning "turn" or "twist". In Greek literature, "strophe" referred to the section of a lyric poem where the chorus turned or moved in one direction, while the "antistrophe" described the section where the chorus turned or moved in the opposite direction. "Ecstrophe" developed from these notions and came to be used in rhetoric and poetry to signify a counter-turn or a reversal of fortunes in a narrative or argument. The term is not as commonly used as it once was but persists in certain specialized contexts.
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