Recontextualize: meaning, definitions and examples
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recontextualize
[ reɪˈkɒn.tɛk.stjʊə.laɪz ]
art theory
To recontextualize means to take something out of its original context and place it into a different context, giving it new meaning or interpretation. This term is often used in discussions of art, literature, and media, where elements are reinterpreted through various lenses.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The artist decided to recontextualize traditional motifs in modern settings.
- Scholars often recontextualize historical events in light of contemporary issues.
- The film recontextualizes classic literature for a younger audience.
Word origin
The term 'recontextualize' originates from the combination of the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and 'contextualize', which comes from the word 'context'. The word 'context' itself can be traced back to the Latin 'contextus', meaning 'to weave together'. The concept of recontextualization emerged in the late 20th century, particularly in postmodern art and critical theory, where artists and theorists began to explore how the meanings of works change when they are placed in different cultural or temporal settings. This idea has become particularly relevant in the digital age, where media and information are constantly being remixed and shared across various platforms, necessitating a re-examination of their original meanings.