Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Virginal

Virginal: A virginal is a simple harpsichord - a keyboard instrument where the strings are plucked. The etymology is metamorphic and related to the sound (a virgin's voice), the music (in praise of the Virgin Mary) or expected performers (virgins).
The candles are lit, the tables spread with linen, and Henrika has seated herself at the virginal.
A Book for Today: Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister by Gregory Maguire

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