Everyman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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everyman
[ˈɛvrɪˌmæn ]
Definitions
play
The character representing the human race in an allegorical play. Everyman is used to symbolize the qualities and struggles that all people face in their lives.
Examples of usage
- Everyman must face death.
- Everyman is a morality play.
generic term
A term used to refer to any individual, regardless of gender.
Examples of usage
- Everyman deserves to be treated with respect.
- Everyman has the right to pursue happiness.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- The term 'everyman' has roots in medieval morality plays, where characters personified moral attributes or common human experiences.
- In literature, 'everyman' often goes on a journey or faces challenges that reflect what many people experience in life.
Philosophy
- Philosophically, the everyman symbolizes the struggle for identity and meaning in a complex world, making their story universally relatable.
- Many philosophers argue that understanding the everyman helps us grasp larger societal issues and human behavior.
Pop Culture
- In movies and books, everyman characters like Arthur Dent from 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' highlight ordinary reactions to extraordinary situations.
- Superheroes often have an 'everyman' persona, like Spider-Man, who is an average teenager grappling with typical life challenges alongside his superpowers.
Psychology
- Psychologically, everyman characters create a sense of empathy, allowing audiences to see themselves in different narratives.
- They can also serve as a mirror for societal norms and pressures, as they often reflect our fears, dreams, and struggles.
History
- The concept of everyman has evolved through the centuries, influencing how we perceive heroism and virtue in historical narratives.
- Everyman-like figures in history, like the common soldier or the everyday worker, emphasize the importance of grassroots movements.
Origin of 'everyman'
The term 'everyman' originated from the 15th-century English morality play titled 'Everyman'. In this play, the character represents all of humanity, facing the struggles and choices that come with mortality. The concept of Everyman has since been used in various literary works and discussions to symbolize the common experiences and challenges shared by all individuals.
See also: man, manacle, manage, mania, manipulate, mankind, manliness, manly, manner, manor, mantra, manual, manure.