Explanation
Bathos shatters a built-up sense of grandeur by abruptly shifting into the mundane or trivial. The break can be unintentional or deliberately used for comic effect.
Example
He fought for freedom, dignity—and a parking space.
Counterexample
A consistently matter-of-fact enumeration without any dramatic drop in tone.
Distinction
Distinguish from anticlimax: This can decline gradually; bathos specifically refers to a drastic stylistic plunge.
Effect on thought and perception
Exposes expectations of grandeur and forces a reassessment of what was previously sublime.
Resonance
The lingering effect arises from the abrupt loss of a built-up tone.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Bathos“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-103-002. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-103-002The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.