intertext
UK[ˈɪntəˌtɛkst]US[ˈɪntərˌtɛkst]
n
A text considered in relation to other texts, especially through the ways it references, alludes to, or is woven together with them.
n
The relationship or network of connections between different texts.
Morpheme Breakdown
inter
text
inter
between, among
text
woven thing, writing
Etymology
The word "intertext" is a modern scholarly formation, directly combining Latin elements. The prefix "inter-," meaning "between" or "among," is a common Indo-European derivative. The core noun "text" originates from the Latin textus, meaning "web, structure, narrative," which itself derives from the past participle of the verb texere, "to weave." This metaphorical link between weaving fabric and constructing language is ancient. Thus, "intertext" literally means "a weaving between," elegantly capturing the concept of a text that is not isolated but is intrinsically woven into a larger fabric of other writings, creating meaning through its connections and dialogues with them.
Analysis
Structure: inter (between, among) + text (woven thing, writing)
- inter: A prefix of Latin origin, meaning "between, among, mutually, reciprocally." It functions as a relational modifier in the word.
- text: A root of Latin origin (from texere, "to weave"), meaning "something woven, fabric; hence, style, texture; written work." It functions as the core noun element.
Examples
The novel is a complex intertext, full of allusions to classical mythology and Shakespearean drama.
Literary analysis often focuses on the intertext between an author's later work and their earlier writings.
The film functions as an intertext, borrowing and re-contextualizing scenes from famous Hollywood westerns.