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Man of Letters

Posted on the 19 January 2025 by Idioms

man of letters ( metonymy)
/mæn əv ˈlɛtərz/

Meaning

  1. Refers to someone deeply engaged in literary or scholarly pursuits.
  2. Describes an intellectual known for writing or research in the humanities.
  3. Identifies a person with broad literary or academic knowledge.

Example Sentences

  1. The university awarded him an honorary doctorate for being a man of letters whose essays inspired countless readers.
  2. Known as a man of letters, he dedicated his life to translating ancient manuscripts.
  3. Her reputation as a man of letters grew as she published thought-provoking essays and critiques.
  4. He was not just a scientist but also a man of letters, authoring several books on philosophy.
  5. Throughout history, every man of letters has contributed to the preservation and expansion of human knowledge.

Origin and History

The term "man of letters" is a calque of the French phrase "homme de lettres," which translates directly to "man of letters."

Historically, this term referred to individuals engaged in literary or scholarly pursuits, distinguishing them from the largely illiterate populace.

Over time, it evolved to denote someone deeply involved in the arts and literature, often a professional writer or scholar.

Earliest Recorded Usage

The phrase "man of letters" first appeared in English print between 1635 and 1645.

This period aligns with the Renaissance, a time when the value of literacy and scholarly engagement was increasingly recognized.

Evolution of the Term

Initially, being a "man of letters" simply indicated literacy-a significant distinction when the ability to read and write was uncommon.

As literacy became more widespread, the term's connotation shifted. By the 17th and 18th centuries, it referred to individuals deeply engaged in literary and scholarly activities, often associated with the "Republic of Letters," a network of intellectuals exchanging ideas through letters and publications.

Modern Usage and Decline

In contemporary times, the specific term "man of letters" has become less prevalent, largely replaced by the more inclusive term " intellectual." This shift reflects broader changes in society, including increased literacy rates and the diversification of intellectual pursuits beyond traditional literary activities.


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