Literary notes about Adversary (AI summary)
The term “adversary” functions as a potent literary device that encapsulates the notion of opposition in myriad forms—ranging from a formidable military rival to the embodiment of abstract obstacles. In historical narratives, such as in [1] and [2], it is used to highlight the tactical and strategic challenges posed by a shrewd opponent, while in chivalric tales like [3] the term evokes images of duels and honor-bound conflicts. In other contexts, it carries moral and spiritual overtones, as seen in texts like [4] and [5], where it symbolizes the broader struggle between good and evil. This layered usage enriches the narrative by imbuing conflict with both concrete and metaphorical significance.
- Without the help of a personal interview, Genseric was sufficiently acquainted with the genius and designs of his adversary.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - Henry was the severe adversary of the Normans, the allies and vassals of Gregory the Seventh, his implacable foe.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - How Sir Tristram fought for Sir Anguish and overcame his adversary, and how his adversary would never yield him.
— from Le Morte d'Arthur: Volume 1 by Sir Thomas Malory - How long, O God, shall the enemy reproach: is the adversary to provoke thy name for ever? 73:11.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete - And the Lord shewed me Jesus the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord: and Satan stood on his right hand to be his adversary.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
