Picaresque

Adjective

Definition: Relating to or characteristic of a genre of prose fiction that depicts the adventures of a roguish hero, typically of low social class, who lives by their wits in a corrupt society.

Synonyms: Roguish, Adventurous, Cunning, Clever

Antonyms: Honest, Upright, Moral

Examples:

The picaresque novel follows the humorous exploits of a cunning protagonist.
The story is set in a picaresque world filled with scams and swindlers.

Mnemonics:

"Picaresque" sounds like "picnic roguish" - imagine a picnic with clever rogues.

Etymology:

Origin:

From Spanish 'picaresco', derived from 'pícaro', meaning rogue or rascal.

Historical Usage:

The picaresque genre of literature became popular in Spain in the 16th and 17th centuries, with notable works like "Lazarillo de Tormes" and "Don Quixote" exhibiting picaresque elements. The term has since been adopted and used in English to describe similar themes and character portrayals.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Picaresque hero"

Explanation:

Referring to a main character in a picaresque novel who is clever, resourceful, and often involved in various misadventures.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Interpreting picaresque as solely referring to adventurers or rogues.

Explanation:

While picaresque often involves clever rogues or adventurers, it specifically refers to a genre of literature characterized by the experiences and social commentary of a roguish hero.