Asclepiad

/æsˈkliːpiːæd/ noun

Definition

A metrical line or verse form used in classical poetry, named after the Greek god Asclepius and used especially in lyric poetry.

Etymology

From Greek 'Asklepias' (Asclepius), the god of medicine, because this meter was used in poems addressed to or about him. The term was adopted by Roman poets and transmitted through Latin into English literary tradition.

Kelly Says

Asclepiads are these bouncy poetic meters that ancient poets used to literally sing praises to the god of medicine—so every time a classical poet used this rhythm, they were technically performing a musical dedication to healing!

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