Literary notes about Comport (AI summary)
The term "comport" is frequently employed to denote the manner in which individuals conduct themselves, often in relation to societal or moral expectations. In literary contexts, it describes both the natural behavior that is consistent with one's dignity and the deliberate adherence to prescribed codes of conduct. Characters are advised on how best to comport themselves in various situations, whether in ceremonial settings [1] or in the face of personal and social challenges [2]. Additionally, the term can signal the alignment—or sometimes the misalignment—of actions with established norms, as when conduct is weighed against concepts of honor and propriety [3, 4]. Thus, "comport" not only reflects behavior in a physical sense but also encapsulates the broader interplay between one's inner character and outward expression [5, 6].
- On our way there he gave me directions how to comport myself, and described to me the ceremonial I was to observe on being presented to the Khan.
— from Árminius Vambéry, his life and adventures by Ármin Vámbéry - For hours Evan, in a trance, half stupefied, had to listen to the Countess's directions how he was to comport himself in Lymport.
— from Complete Project Gutenberg Works of George Meredith by George Meredith - To owe debts does not comport with the honor of a cavalier, and I propose to silence all base clamors on that head.
— from Wolfville Days by Alfred Henry Lewis - Evidently, the garments he now wore gave him an appearance of poverty and meanness, which did not comport with the dignity of a South.
— from The Call of the Cumberlands by Charles Neville Buck - But while Christians comport themselves thus in presence of the subtlest mysteries of faith, the Sceptic cannot be without his peculiar reflections.
— from Arrows of Freethought by G. W. (George William) Foote - Aunt Bessy had had a few minutes to prepare herself for this scene, and was therefore able to comport herself, as she imagined, with proper dignity.
— from Name and Fame: A Novel by Adeline Sergeant