Cyclopedia: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Greek 'kyklos,' meaning circle, and 'paideia,' meaning education or upbringing, which together suggest a comprehensive education.
• In the 18th century, 'cyclopedia' referred to entire collections of knowledge, updated more frequently than traditional encyclopedias.

Historical Origins

• The first famous cyclopedia, 'Encyclopédie,' was published in France during the Enlightenment in the 1750s and aimed to gather and disseminate knowledge.
• Before printed cyclopedias, ancient civilizations, like the Greeks and Romans, compiled vast scrolls of information that served similar purposes.
• The concept of a cyclopedia served as a precursor to modern encyclopedias, with the intention to educate the masses.

Science

• Cyclopedias often contain expansive sections on various scientific disciplines, from biology to physics, providing knowledge that reflects the understanding of the time.
• They played a crucial role in advancing education during the Industrial Revolution, as they made scientific knowledge accessible to everyone.
• In modern times, many online platforms function similarly to traditional cyclopedias, allowing for continuous updates and contributions from users worldwide.

Literature

• Cyclopedias are recognized as important literary tools, as they compile the works of many authors and thinkers in one place for reference.
• The format often incorporates essays or articles by experts, providing thorough insights and perspectives on diverse subjects.
• Notable literary figures, like Samuel Johnson and Voltaire, contributed to cyclopedic works, sharing their knowledge with the world.

Pop Culture

• In contemporary culture, cyclopedic knowledge has transitioned to online platforms like Wikipedia, which operates on a similar collective knowledge-sharing model.
• Television shows and movies often parody the vast knowledge of a cyclopedia character to illustrate expertise and eccentricity.
• Cyclopedia-themed games and quizzes have emerged, emphasizing the fun of trivia through competitions that test encyclopedic knowledge.