Definition Of Decorum In Literature

In classical rhetoric decorum is the use of a style that is appropriate to a subject situation speaker and audience.

Definition of decorum in literature. The subject or theme must be dealt with in the proper diction metre form and tone. Decorum definition is literary and dramatic propriety. Decorum in literary style the appropriate rendering of a character action speech or scene.

An example of decorum is to show good table manners. Propriety collins english dictionary complete and unabridged 12th edition 2014 harpercollins publishers 1991 1994 1998 2000 2003 2006 2007 2009 2011 2014. The concept of decorum is also applied to prescribed limits of appropriate social behavior within set situations.

How to use decorum in a sentence. Decorum from the latin. According to cicero s discussion of decorum in de oratore see below the grand and important theme should be treated in a dignified and noble style the humble or trivial theme in a less exalted manner.

From latin neuter of the adjective decorus seemly. Mid 16th century as a literary term denoting suitability of style. Right proper was a principle of classical rhetoric poetry and theatrical theory concerning the fitness or otherwise of a style to a theatrical subject.

A requirement of correct behaviour in polite society. The concept of literary propriety in its simplest stage of development was outlined by aristotle. In later classical criticism the roman poet horace maintained that to retain its unity a work of art must be consistent in every aspect.

Decorum is defined as appropriate polite behavior in society.