Paragoning: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'paragon' comes from the Old French 'paragon', meaning 'a model or standard.'
• Its roots trace back to the Latin term 'paragone,' which referred to a touchstone used to test the purity of gold.
• In essence, the word reflects the idea of something that sets the standard for excellence.

Literature

• In literature, characters often serve as paragons of virtue or moral values, highlighting what is deemed admirable.
• Famous works like 'Pride and Prejudice' feature characters who embody ideals, like Mr. Darcy as a paragon of honor.
• Paragoning can illustrate the contrast between characters, emphasizing virtues through comparison.

Psychology

• Psychologists study how individuals often compare themselves to paragons to inspire self-improvement.
• The 'self-enhancement bias' can lead people to view paragons as unrealistic, creating aspirations that may be unattainable.
• Paragoning can impact motivation; seeing someone as an ideal can either inspire or discourage individuals.

Art

• In art, paragons can be seen in the portrayal of ideal beauty, influencing styles across different eras and cultures.
• Renaissance artists often depicted figures that were paragons of physical and moral beauty, reflecting contemporary ideals.
• Art movements, such as Romanticism, frequently sought to represent a paragon of emotional experience and nature.

Pop Culture

• In modern films and TV shows, protagonists often emerge as paragons embodying traits like bravery, honesty, and resourcefulness.
• Paragons in pop culture serve to inspire audiences, such as superheroes representing ideals of justice and strength.
• Critically, someday, paragoning can also show that no one is perfect, as these characters often undergo significant challenges.