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Areopagitica

Areopagitica

9.9
A strong essay or pamphlet that defends freedom of speech
  • noun
  • /ˌɛəriəˈpædʒɪtɪkə/
  • Literature
: Areopagitica
  • The journalist wrote an Areopagitica to protest the government's attempt to silence the press.

Examples

  • The journalist wrote an Areopagitica to protest the government's attempt to silence the press.

  • Her essay, inspired by Milton's Areopagitica, argued passionately for freedom of expression.

  • Many activists consider Areopagitica a foundational text in the fight against censorship.

  • Milton's Areopagitica remains a foundational text for advocates of free speech.

  • The principles in Areopagitica are still relevant today.

  • Her essay, inspired by Milton's Areopagitica, argued passionately for freedom of expression.

  • Many activists consider Areopagitica a foundational text in the fight against censorship.

Synonyms

pamphlet
vsAreopagitica
87 3.1

A small paper book or leaflet that gives information about one subject

is specifically a strong public defense of a particular liberty rather than general information
apologia
vsAreopagitica
  • Literature
3 9.9

A formal written explanation that defends someone's actions or beliefs after criticism

is a public argument defending a broad right rather than a personal response
tractus
vsAreopagitica
  • Archaic
1 9.9

A short pamphlet that gives information or argues a point

focuses on arguing for a specific public right rather than general subjects

Surface Forms

Areopagitica singular
Areopagiticas plural

Etymology

Areopagitica comes from the Greek Areopagus, meaning 'hill of Ares', the place for law and public debate in ancient Athens, so calling a pamphlet an Areopagitica means it is a bold defence of free speech in Milton's style.