Question
What is the explanation for the strange spelling of the English word "playwright"?
a
During the Elizabethan period, all authors were known as "wrights."
b
A mistake made early in the history of printing became standard.
c
Its origin is the German word for "author."
d
During the Middle Ages, "wright" meant a craftsperson.
a
During the Elizabethan period, all authors were known as "wrights."
b
A mistake made early in the history of printing became standard.
c
Its origin is the German word for "author."
d
During the Middle Ages, "wright" meant a craftsperson.
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The correct explanation for the strange spelling of the English word "playwright" is:
**d. During the Middle Ages, "wright" meant a craftsperson.**
The term "wright" comes from an Old English word "wyrhta," which means a worker or maker, particularly one who crafts or builds something. In this context, a "playwright" is literally a "maker of plays." The usage of "wright" in this sense reflects the historical significance of creating works of art or craft, emphasizing the skill and creativity involved in playwriting.
**d. During the Middle Ages, "wright" meant a craftsperson.**
The term "wright" comes from an Old English word "wyrhta," which means a worker or maker, particularly one who crafts or builds something. In this context, a "playwright" is literally a "maker of plays." The usage of "wright" in this sense reflects the historical significance of creating works of art or craft, emphasizing the skill and creativity involved in playwriting.