Analysis of the word- ‘nightmare’ with a focus on the etymological, semantic and orthographic characteristics.

1.     When does the OED citation first record the appearance of the word in printed text?

The word originally was used to describe a female spirit who produced a feeling of suffocation when a human/animal was sleeping.

2.     What type of text (or context) did it first appear in?

C. Horstmann in 1887

3Where does the word come from?

USA

4. Has the word always been gender specific?

It was originally specified to be a female spirit but eventually had neither gender specifically tied to it.

5. Has the word changed over time?

The word has a negative connotation as it is linked to fear. Was associated with suffocation in sleep, but now associated with a bad dream. It can also be used to describe a situation of negativity. Nightmares were also described as an oppressive fear.

6. Has the spelling of the word changed?

Has been ‘nyghtesmare’ and ‘nightesmare’

7. Does the word exist in more than one word class?

Noun and verb

8. Does the dictionary definition match your understanding of the word?

a bad dream producing these or similar sensations; an oppressive, frightening, or unpleasant dream.

gender exam question

The text portrays the stereotype of males being in power over women through their dominance. Professor Chadwick is described as 'famous' by the narrator which creates an important status. The stereotype is met when he is described to be in control over the woman. This is implied when he 'demanded' the answer to a question from the theatre sister.
 The female is portrayed as stereotypically nervous around men when Penny 'blushed' when Professor Chadwick is said to be laughing at her which creates a dominance over her. She also says: "Where do you want me?" which has sexual connotations and reveals she is empowered by him in the situation, revealing that due to his status and position he is dominant over her. She is also said to be 'absorbed in his work' which again reveals how she is empowered by him and he has her in his control.
The use of a question: "Where do you want me?" implies how he has empowered her, as he doesn't ask any questions to her. It is almost as if she has to ask permission of him, implying power again.