Literary Term - Encomium

 

Literary Term - Encomium 

An encomium is a form of writing or speech that expresses high praise, admiration, or tribute for a person, place, thing, or idea. This term originates from Ancient Greece, where it was typically used in speeches or odes to celebrate heroes or important public figures. Encomiums are often characterized by elaborate language and glowing, positive descriptors and are meant to honor or commend their subject.

 

Examples from Literature

In literature, an encomium can appear in various genres, including poetry, prose, and oratory, and is similar to eulogies or panegyrics, though not necessarily delivered posthumously.

An encomium is a speech or piece of writing that warmly praises someone or something. In literature, encomia often celebrate people, qualities, or events. Here are some examples:

 

1. Homer’s The Iliad (c. 8th Century BCE) 

   - The Iliad contains encomiastic passages that praise the heroic deeds of warriors like Achilles. Homer describes Achilles' bravery and strength on the battlefield in glowing terms, making him a revered figure in Greek culture.

 

2. Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar (1599) 

   - Mark Antony’s famous speech ("Friends, Romans, countrymen...") is an example of an encomium. Though it has an ironic twist, Antony extols Caesar’s virtues, loyalty, and contributions to Rome, turning the people in Caesar's favor after his assassination.

 

3. Ben Jonson’s “To the Memory of My Beloved, The Author Mr. William Shakespeare” (1623) 

   - This poem, written after Shakespeare’s death, is an encomium praising Shakespeare's unparalleled skill as a playwright. Jonson calls Shakespeare the "Soul of the age," giving high honor to his literary contributions.

 

4. Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass (1855) 

   - In Leaves of Grass, Whitman uses encomiastic language to celebrate the human spirit, democracy, and America. The poem “Song of Myself” praises individuality and the interconnectedness of all people.

 

5. Rudyard Kipling’s “If—” (1910) 

   - While “If—” is often read as a guide to self-discipline, it is also an encomium to qualities like patience, resilience, and maturity, celebrating ideals of character that embody strength and wisdom.

 

These examples show how encomium can manifest in various forms across literature, from epic poetry to speeches, essays, and reflective poetry.

 

Functions of Encomium

An encomium is a formal expression of praise, often delivered as a speech or written piece that honors someone or something. Here are some key functions of an encomium:

 

1. Honoring an Individual or Group: Encomiums are primarily used to celebrate the virtues, achievements, and positive qualities of individuals or groups, whether they are historical figures, contemporary personalities, or entire communities.

 

2. Celebrating Accomplishments: Encomiums often highlight specific accomplishments, like significant contributions to a field, brave acts, or exceptional skills. This might be used in contexts like award ceremonies, public tributes, or dedications.

 

3. Inspiring the Audience: By focusing on admirable traits and achievements, an encomium serves to inspire the audience, encouraging them to aspire to similar virtues or deeds. The values emphasized, such as courage, wisdom, or integrity, are meant to resonate and uplift.

 

4. Commemorating Events or Anniversaries: Encomiums are often part of commemorations, such as anniversaries of important events, where they focus on the historical significance and lasting impact of the people or events being remembered.

 

5. Fostering Unity and Shared Values: Encomiums can help reinforce shared values and cultural heritage, particularly in settings where community solidarity is important, like national celebrations or academic gatherings. They often serve as reminders of common goals and beliefs.

 

6. Creating a Legacy: An encomium contributes to the historical legacy of the subject by documenting and immortalizing their achievements. It serves as an enduring tribute that can be revisited, contributing to the reputation and legacy of those praised.

 

These functions make encomiums a powerful tool in rhetoric, celebrating, remembering, and instilling values through the power of praise.