Recapitulation

Recapitulation is the act of summarizing or restating the essential points of something. The term derives from Latin recapitulare, meaning to take up again or summarize. In general usage, it describes a restatement that reiterates the main arguments, themes, or events of a text, speech, or process, often toward the end to reinforce understanding.

In music, recapitulation is a structural component of the classical sonata form. After the exposition presents primary themes in contrasting keys and the development alters them, the recapitulation returns the main themes in the home key, providing a sense of closure and tonal unity. Some works include a double recapitulation or modified returns.

In biology, recapitulation is associated with the biogenetic law proposed by Ernst Haeckel in the 19th century, summarized as ontogeny recapitulates phylogeny. The idea suggested that an organism's developmental stages mirror its evolutionary history. Modern embryology rejects a literal recapitulation, emphasizing complex gene regulation and developmental constraints. The old law remains discussed as a historical influence, with related concepts such as paedomorphosis treated separately.

In rhetoric and literary criticism, recapitulation is the deliberate restatement of key points, typically near the conclusion of a passage. It consolidates arguments, reiterates motifs, or presents a synthesis to aid memory and emphasize the core message.

Across fields, recapitulation serves as a device to return to core ideas after exploration, supporting clarity and coherence.