decadent etymology

Etymology:

The word "decadent" derives from the Latin word "decidere," meaning "to fall down" or "to decline." It entered the English language around the 16th century.

Meaning:

The primary meaning of "decadent" is "characterized by or exhibiting moral or aesthetic decline." It typically refers to persons, behaviors, or artistic works that are perceived as indulgent, self-indulgent, or excessively elaborate.

Origin and Historical Usage:

The term "decadent" emerged in the 19th century, during a period of widespread social and cultural upheaval in Europe. It was first used by French literary critics to describe a group of writers whose works explored themes of pessimism, disillusionment, and the loss of traditional values.

Romanticism, which had dominated European art and literature earlier in the 19th century, had emphasized emotion, imagination, and individuality. However, by the mid-19th century, a reaction began to set in against these ideals. Decadent writers, such as Charles Baudelaire and Paul Verlaine, sought to express the growing sense of disillusionment and alienation that characterized the modern world.

The term "decadent" was initially used in a derogatory manner, but it gradually came to be embraced by certain artistic circles. Decadent literature, art, and music often celebrated the artificial, the decadent, and the perverse.

Современное использование:

Today, the term "decadent" is still used to describe works of art, literature, and lifestyle that are characterized by excessive indulgence, hedonism, or a preoccupation with pleasure. It can also be used more broadly to refer to a culture or society that is perceived as being in decline or decay.

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