Literary notes about Emblematic (AI summary)
In literature, "emblematic" is used to indicate that an object, action, or figure stands as a symbol carrying deeper, often abstract, meanings. Writers invoke it to imbue everyday items—like a decorative vase ([1]) or a pair of crossed swords ([2])—with connotations that extend far beyond their physical form. In one instance, the term conveys the essence of freedom through a key ([3]), while in another it contrasts the powers of masculinity and femininity via a bull and lioness ([4]). It can also encapsulate more nuanced ideas, as found when a head is linked to rebellion ([5]) or fruitfulness is symbolized by a coconut ([6]). Through such uses, "emblematic" becomes a bridge between tangible details and the larger thematic or cultural narratives the writer wishes to evoke.
- It consisted of a large emblematic vase, twenty feet in height, painted and modelled by Mr. Alfred Adams.
— from The Pantropheon; Or, History of Food, Its Preparation, from the Earliest Ages of the World by Alexis Soyer - A miniature fort occupies the centre of the room, and emblematic cannon and crossed swords are to be seen in conspicuous places.
— from Peculiarities of American Cities by Willard W. Glazier - The Governor of Pennsylvania was himself present to do Russell Conwell honor, and he gave to him a key emblematic of the Freedom of the State.
— from Getting at the Inner Man, and, Fifty Years on the Lecture Platform by Robert Shackleton - The bull and lioness are emblematic of the masculine and feminine powers.
— from Ancient Pagan and Modern Christian Symbolism by Thomas Inman and M.R.C.S.E. John Newton - The head of Medusa is emblematic of rebellion, sedition and anarchy.
— from A Guide to the Exhibition of English Medals by British Museum. Department of Coins and Medals - Evinced in the presentation of the sriphala , the fruit of Sri , which is the coco-nut, emblematic of fruitfulness.
— from Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan, v. 2 of 3or the Central and Western Rajput States of India by James Tod
