roundel etymology

Etymology of "Roundel"

The word "roundel" comes from the Middle English word "roundell," which itself is derived from the Old French word "rondel," meaning "little round."

Meaning and Origin of "Roundel"

Meaning:

  • A roundel is a type of poem or song with a specific form and rhyme scheme.
  • In heraldry, it refers to a circular device or charge with a smaller circle inside.

Origin:

Poetry:

  • Roundels became popular in the 14th century in France and later spread to England.
  • They were often used in courtly love poetry and featured themes of love, longing, and separation.

Heraldry:

  • Roundels were first used in heraldry in the 13th century.
  • They represented various objects, such as celestial bodies, coins, or flowers.
  • The inner circle could be filled with a different color or design to create contrast.

Characteristics of a Roundel (Poetry):

  • Consists of 13 lines and three stanzas.
  • Two stanzas of four lines each.
  • One stanza of five lines.
  • Follows an ABBAabbaA rhyme scheme.
  • The first line is repeated as the refrain in the ninth and thirteenth lines.

Examples:

Poetry:

Rondeau by Charles d'Orléans

My heart is wounded and my body weak, Love's arrows strike me sore and sharp and deep, My senses fail, my reason grows feeble. My heart is wounded and my body weak, In vain I strive to ease my pain and weep, For no relief my aching soul can seek.

Heraldry:

  • The coat of arms of the Earl of Chester features a red roundel with a gold inner circle.
  • The coat of arms of the House of Windsor includes several roundels, representing circles of gold.

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