incipit etymology

Etymology:

in- (Latin): "in" capere (Latin): "to seize, take"

Meaning:

A beginning, opening, or introduction, especially of a literary work.

Origin:

The term "incipit" originates from the Latin phrase "incipit liber" or "incipit opus," which literally means "the book begins" or "the work begins." This phrase was traditionally used at the start of a medieval manuscript to indicate the commencement of the text.

In the early days of bookmaking, before the widespread use of titles and chapter divisions, the incipit served as a quick reference point for readers to identify the work and its author. It also provided a brief glimpse of the content, enticing readers to continue reading.

Over time, the term "incipit" became more widely adopted in literary and academic contexts to refer to the opening section of any literary piece, regardless of its length or genre. It is commonly used in the following ways:

• To identify the first few words or lines of a book, poem, or play.
• To indicate the beginning of a chapter or section.
• To serve as a quotation from the opening of a literary work.
• To describe the overall tone, style, or subject matter of a work based on its incipit.

The incipit remains an important literary convention, as it provides readers with an initial understanding of the work and sets the stage for what is to come.

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