Nota: A tradução desta entrada está atualmente em revisão de qualidade, portanto parte do conteúdo é exibida temporariamente apenas em inglês.
Este verbete ainda não foi traduzido para o seu idioma, portanto o original é exibido abaixo.
exemplum
This term carries a scholarly and ecclesiastical weight, specifically evoking the tradition of medieval preaching. It describes a narrative tool designed to bridge the gap between abstract theological doctrine and the lived experience of a lay audience, transforming a complex moral truth into a tangible, relatable story.
Because it is a Latin loanword used in specialized literary and historical contexts, it is far more formal than "parable" or "anecdote." It implies a structured pedagogical intent where the story serves as a precise specimen of a particular vice or virtue.
Meanings
Examples
The priest used a brief exemplum to illustrate the dangers of pride.
This medieval text is structured as a series of moral exempla.
I wonder if this story serves as a simple exemplum or a complex allegory.
The preacher inserted an exemplum about a greedy merchant to warn the congregation.
Each exemplum in the collection provides a clear lesson on virtue.
He relied on a classical exemplum to support his ethical argument.
The author employs an exemplum to make the abstract concept of faith more tangible.
Let us consider this particular exemplum as a guide for righteous living.