Definition of model upon

The expression "model upon" is a literary construction that originated during the Renaissance period in England. The word "model" in this context refers to a person or object that serves as a prototype or example to be imitated or followed. The prefix "upon" in this expression means "on" or "upon," and it's used to indicate that the model or prototype is being referenced or applied to something else. In literature, "model upon" was often used to describe the relationship between ancient Greek and Roman works and those produced during the Renaissance period. Renaissance writers and scholars looked to the classical models as sources of inspiration and guidance for their own creative endeavors. This process involved not only replicating the forms and styles of classical works but also adapting them to new contexts and ideas. For example, Shakespeare's play "Julius Caesar" is often characterized as a model upon Machiavelli's "The Prince," as both texts explore themes of power, ambition, and political intrigue. Similarly, the English poet John Dryden used the expression "model upon" to describe the relationship between the classical poet Horace and his own work, acknowledging the influence of the former on the latter. In modern usage, the expression "model upon" is less common, but it's still occasionally used to describe the relationship between a contemporary work and a classical or historical precedent. It continues to highlight the enduring importance and relevance of the classical models and the ongoing process of adaptation and transformation in the creative arts.