Difference between revisions of "Classic"

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In the traditional sense, a '''classic'' book' is one written in [[ancient Greece]] or [[ancient Rome]] (see [[classics]]). The word Classic may, however, also be applied to [[literature]] and other [[art]] that is widely considered a model of its form. In this sense, classics comprise what some call a canon of world [[literature]]. However, it is no small matter of dispute what belongs in such an index of 'exemplary' work.
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==Origin==
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French or Latin; French ''classique'', from [[Latin]] ''classicus'' of the highest class of [[Roman]] [[citizens]], of the first rank, from ''classis''
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*[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/17th_century 1604]
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==Definitions==
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*1a :  serving as a [[standard]] of excellence :  of recognized [[value]] <classic literary works>
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:b :  traditional, enduring <classic designs>
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:c :  characterized by simple tailored lines in fashion year after year <a classic suit>
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*2:  of or relating to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Greece ancient Greeks] and [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_Rome Romans] or their [[culture]] :  classical
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*3a :  historically memorable <a classic battle>
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:b :  noted because of special [[literary]] or historical [[associations]] <Paris is the classic refuge of expatriates>
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==Description==
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A '''classic''' is an outstanding example of a particular [[style]], something of lasting worth or with a timeless [[quality]]. The word can be an adjective (a classic car) or a noun (a classic of [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_Literature English literature]). It denotes a particular quality in [[art]], [[architecture]], literature, design, [[technology]], or other cultural [[artifacts]]. In [[commerce]], products are named 'classic' to denote a long standing popular version or model, to distinguish it from a newer variety. Classic is used to describe many major, long-standing sporting [[events]]. Colloquially, an everyday occurrence (e.g. a joke or mishap) may be described as 'an absolute classic'.
  
Most classics are many years old, but the word is sometimes pressed into use to describe newer works. Many classic books are, because of their age, now out of copyright and in the [[public domain]], and of these a large number are freely available [[on-line]] from sources such as [[Project Gutenberg]], many university websites or commercial sites such as Literature Junction and The Literature Network.
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"Classic" should not be confused with ''classical'', which refers specifically to certain cultural styles, especially in music and architecture: styles generally taking [[inspiration]] from the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_tradition Classical tradition], hence [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classicism classicism].
 
 
The phrase 'classic book' or 'classic literature' has taken on new meaning - many view any pre-1900 book still in print as a classic, or titles that is hundred years or older and still in print, and many books are classed as [[modern classics]] because of their contemporary significance or perceived future significance.
 
  
 
[[Category: General Reference]]
 
[[Category: General Reference]]
[[Category:Languages and Literature]]
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[[Category: Languages and Literature]]

Latest revision as of 23:45, 12 December 2020

Lighterstill.jpg

Barros-book-war-love.jpg

Origin

French or Latin; French classique, from Latin classicus of the highest class of Roman citizens, of the first rank, from classis

Definitions

  • 1a : serving as a standard of excellence : of recognized value <classic literary works>
b : traditional, enduring <classic designs>
c : characterized by simple tailored lines in fashion year after year <a classic suit>
b : noted because of special literary or historical associations <Paris is the classic refuge of expatriates>

Description

A classic is an outstanding example of a particular style, something of lasting worth or with a timeless quality. The word can be an adjective (a classic car) or a noun (a classic of English literature). It denotes a particular quality in art, architecture, literature, design, technology, or other cultural artifacts. In commerce, products are named 'classic' to denote a long standing popular version or model, to distinguish it from a newer variety. Classic is used to describe many major, long-standing sporting events. Colloquially, an everyday occurrence (e.g. a joke or mishap) may be described as 'an absolute classic'.

"Classic" should not be confused with classical, which refers specifically to certain cultural styles, especially in music and architecture: styles generally taking inspiration from the Classical tradition, hence classicism.