kapitel

Kapitel is a term used in several Germanic languages, corresponding to the English word chapter. It denotes a major division of a book, document, or other long text. The etymology traces from Latin capitulum "little head," diminutive of caput "head," through Old French chapitre, with forms adapted in various languages.

In practice, chapters are commonly numbered and may have headings or titles that indicate topic or scene. They can vary in length, ranging from a few hundred to several thousand words, and many works are organized into chapters to structure narrative progression or argument. Chapters may be subdivided into sections or subsections to further organize content.

Beyond fiction, chapters organize non-fiction works such as textbooks, histories, and manuals. In legal and administrative writings, the term is used to designate a major division within statutes or codes; some jurisdictions use a chapter to refer to a specific portion within a larger legal code. The chapter structure helps readers navigate complex material and locate information quickly.

In publishing, chapters are often accompanied by a table of contents and may include epigraphs, dedications, or illustrations. Digital formats may offer interactive features such as hyperlinks to chapters or search functions that span multiple chapters, enhancing accessibility and navigation for readers.

The concept exists across many languages and cultures as a fundamental unit of long-form writing, with variations in naming, formatting, and hierarchy. As a result, kapitel serves as a generic label for a textual division designed to organize content and guide readers through a work.