Historically Speaking …
Often the words I feature here belong to specific
industries, and those of you ensconced in their daily worlds likely think,
“Wow—how stupid is she? That’s a common word!”
Common to you, yes, but not to those
of us who have no intimate knowledge of the career, passion and jargon that spawned the
word. One such case in point and speaking of careers …
PROSOPOGRAPHY (präsʹɘ pägʹrɘ fē) n. – the study of careers, esp. of
individuals linked by family, economic, social, or political relationships /
adj. prosopographical. [WW #232]
There are more uses for prosopography
than meets the eye, as noted in a publication of Western Michigan University. The reasons behind such studies are varied
and link individuals to society who might be overlooked unless part of a group.
Following its advancement in Medieval history, more uses became evident with prosopography branching
out into modern and contemporary fields. It’s been a burgeoning
system of research since the 1960s.
So … are you wondering why someone might want
to work in prosopography and what interesting tidbits its
research methodology might produce?
The University o fVirginia has some ideas: “… we study the rhetoric and form of the books
that were published about historical women in recent centuries rather than
reconstructing the actual persons in their historical contexts.” When we learn
about history, we learn about each other.
Word Challenge: PROSOPOGRAPHY. If past civilizations are your passion, imagine the vast
amount of information available through prosopography, as you
slip it into your week of historical writings. Go
for it!
Learning knows no prejudices or boundaries, and it isn’t fattening!
Expanding your mind is a no-cost, simple joy. Do you feel that way too? What’s
your inspiration? Share your creative genius and Wordplay Wednesday comments below.
Write first for yourself … only then can you write for others. (L.Rochelle)
[LinDee Rochelle is a writer and editor by
trade, and an author by way of Rock & Roll. She has published two books (of
three) in her Blast from Your Past series about pioneering R&R Radio DJs. True behind-the-mic tales
make GREAT Holiday Gifts available on Amazon (eBook and print): Book 1 – Rock & Roll Radio DJs: The First Five Years 1954-1959; and Book
2 – Rock & Roll Radio DJs: The Swinging Sixties. Coming soon … The Psychedelic
Seventies!]
Note: Dictionary
definitions are quoted from Webster’s New World College Dictionary.
Endnote: FYI – All links in the PFP site are personally
visited, verified, and vetted. Most are linked to commonly accessed sites of
reputable note. However, as with everything cyber-security, use at your own
discretion.
E-N-Dzzzzzzzz
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