stichomythia etymology

Etymology

The term "stichomythia" comes from the Greek words "stichos" (row or line) and "mythos" (speech).

Meaning

Stichomythia is a type of dialogue in which characters speak in alternating lines of poetry or prose, often in rapid succession.

Origin

Stichomythia originated in ancient Greek drama, where it was used to create dramatic tension and realism. It allowed for characters to express their ideas and emotions in a concise and pointed manner, and to respond quickly to each other's remarks.

Example

An example of stichomythia from Sophocles' play "Oedipus Rex":

Oedipus: Who spread this rumor, sirs? Tell me, now. Shepherd: A man of Corinth, if I read his signs aright. Oedipus: But what was this man's story? Shepherd: He said you were the king's true-born son.

stichomythia relate terms

  • myth

    Etymology of Myth The word myth originates from the Ancient Greek word μῦθος

  • stichic

    Etymology Greek stichos row line verse Meaning A line or verse especially i

  • stair

    Etymology The word stair originates from the Old Norse word steigr meaning path o

  • poet

    Etymology The word poet originates from the Ancient Greek word ποιητής poiēt

  • flux

    Etymology The word flux is derived from the Latin word fluxus meaning a flowing

  • inimical

    Etymology Latin inimīcus enemy Proto Indo European h₃en h₁kó s uncongenia

  • regret

    Etymology Old French regretter Late Latin regretari meaning to murmur complain Po

  • realm

    Etymology The word realm has its roots in several languages Old French Realme mea

  • ignominious

    Etymology The word ignominious originates from Latin in meaning not or withou

  • conundrum

    Etymology The word conundrum is derived from the Latin phrase conundrāre meaning t

  • honor

    Etymology The word honor traces its roots back to the Latin word honor which has a c

  • magistrate

    Etymology The word magistrate is derived from the Latin word magistratus which orig