What is an exposition?
I guess many would see expositions as “the essay-things that our English teachers demand over the weekend” or “number twenty-four on my list of things to study before EOYs” – and while these might hold some element of truth, I believe an exposition goes far deeper than that.
A skin-deep glance would make it seem like the purpose of an exposition is “to expose”, in other words stating that which is hidden and uncovering what lies below the surface of any topic. But in actuality, the word ‘exposition’ stems from the root meaning “to expound”, and thus a good exposition should not only inform but explain. It should also provide opinion and connection to larger concepts alongside mere fact, and give the reader a wholesome and concise view of the subject. In other words, it is an essay aimed towards simplifying and evidencing that which is difficult to understand, and making every outsider a connoisseur.
“ex·po·si·tion (
k
sp
-z
sh
n)
n.
1. A setting forth of meaning or intent.
2.
a. A statement or rhetorical discourse intended to give information about or an explanation of difficult material.
b. The art or technique of composing such discourses.
3. Music
a. The first part of a composition in sonata form that introduces the themes.
b. The opening section of a fugue.
4. The part of a play that provides the background information needed to understand the characters and the action.
5. An act or example of exposing.
6. A public exhibition or show, as of artistic or industrial developments.
[Middle English exposicioun, from Old French exposition, from Latin expositi
, expositin-, from expositus, past participle of expnere, to expound; see expound.]
ex·posi·tive (k-sp
z-tv), ex·posi·tory (-tôr
, -tr) adj.
ex·posi·tor n .”
Dictionary definition quoted from:
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2003. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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