FOUNTAINE Meaning and
Definition
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Fountaine is a literary term that refers to a type of poetic stanza used in French poetry during the 16th and 17th centuries. The term is derived from the French word "fontaine," which signifies a fountain or a source of water. In poetry, it symbolizes the refreshing quality of verses and the flow of emotions or thoughts.
A fountaine typically consists of eight lines, where the first six lines form a sestet and the remaining two lines create a rhyming couplet. The fountaine follows a specific rhyme scheme, often in the pattern of ABABCCDD. However, variations in the rhyme scheme can also be found in different poems.
The purpose of using a fountaine in poetry is to provide a structured and musical form of expression, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the verse. The configuration of the stanza allows for a balance and unity between the first six lines and the concluding couplet.
Throughout history, renowned French poets utilized the fountaine as a popular poetic form, including Pierre de Ronsard and Joachim du Bellay, who were prominent members of the Pleiades group. The fountaine form appeared in various poetic genres, such as sonnets, odes, and epithalamiums, showcasing its adaptability.
Overall, the fountaine is a versatile poetic form that adds elegance and rhythmic harmony to French poetry. Its distinctive structure and rhyme scheme contribute to the artistry of the poet's expression while conveying emotions or ideas in a melodic manner.
Etymology of FOUNTAINE
The word "fountaine" is derived from the Middle English word "fountain", which in turn comes from the Old French word "fontaine". The Old French term has its roots in the Latin word "fontāna", meaning "a fountain or wellspring". The Latin term is derived from "fons", which means "a source or spring". Ultimately, the word traces back to the Proto-Indo-European root "dʰenh₁-", meaning "to flow" or "to run". Thus, the word "fountaine" has its origins in the idea of flowing water or a source of water.
Similar spelling words for FOUNTAINE
- fontanne,
- founding,
- Fontana,
- fontanel,
- Fontaine,
- fondant,
- fountain pen,
- fontanez,
- fontanelle,
- fondness,
- fountain,
- Fontenette,
- fontan,
- fountainhead,
- fontanilla.
