Exploring the words Dominion and Minion
I started reading the book Beginning Postcolonialism by John McLeod (2010), and in the first chapter of the book the word "Dominion" pops up.
I associated to the word "Minion" and have used ChatGPT to help me understand the origins and connection between these words.
"Dominion" comes from the Latin word "dominium." Which means "ownership, lordship, sovereignty".
"Dominus" is a title for a "lord, master" also exercising authority in both secular and religious contexts.
In comparison let's look at the word "minion". "Minion" comes from the Middle French word "mignon," that means "darling, favourite, small, cute, endearing" and applied to show affections to a person or a pet.
In English the word evolved over time and came to describe a subordinate or follower who is servile, dependent, or eager to please. Someone who follows orders or acts in an obsequious manner.
The linguistic relationship between the words dominion and minion, is the share connections to the Latin root "dominus".
The connection between dominion and minion lies in the master-subordinate relationship. Dominion describes the authority and control of the master, minion describes the subordinate who exists under that authority. A "minion" is often seen as someone under the dominion of a superior, following their will or commands.
I associated to the word "Minion" and have used ChatGPT to help me understand the origins and connection between these words.
"Dominion" comes from the Latin word "dominium." Which means "ownership, lordship, sovereignty".
"Dominus" is a title for a "lord, master" also exercising authority in both secular and religious contexts.
In comparison let's look at the word "minion". "Minion" comes from the Middle French word "mignon," that means "darling, favourite, small, cute, endearing" and applied to show affections to a person or a pet.
In English the word evolved over time and came to describe a subordinate or follower who is servile, dependent, or eager to please. Someone who follows orders or acts in an obsequious manner.
The linguistic relationship between the words dominion and minion, is the share connections to the Latin root "dominus".
The connection between dominion and minion lies in the master-subordinate relationship. Dominion describes the authority and control of the master, minion describes the subordinate who exists under that authority. A "minion" is often seen as someone under the dominion of a superior, following their will or commands.
In Pop Culture, the word is referred to the animated yellow Minions characters in the Despicable Me film franchises. I am curious if anyone has analysed the usage and power dynamics of "minions" in pop culture and animations films. I think most people don't even think of these aspects and see these comical characters as funny, silly and naughty following their Master into any adventure and being his loyal, faithful assistants.