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Literary notes about Embolden (AI summary)

In literature, the use of the word "embolden" varies across genres and contexts, serving as a dynamic descriptor of encouragement or provocation. For example, in the Victorian erotic novel [1], the term hints at a subtle provocation, suggesting that even a seemingly trivial gesture, like having powder in one's hair, might spur an otherwise hesitant character to act. In a starkly different context, the phrase appears in a tactical discussion on sabotage [2], where success is portrayed as a catalyst that strengthens resolve towards bolder, more ambitious actions. Meanwhile, Samuel Richardson’s classic [3] employs "embolden" in an emotionally charged sense, implying that words or actions can inspire confidence and positive reflection. Thus, across a diverse range of narratives, "embolden" consistently functions to signal the transformation of hesitance into assertiveness.
  1. It is to be hoped that the powder in your hair will not give ideas to II and embolden him—take care.
    — from The Romance of Lust: A classic Victorian erotic novel by Anonymous
  2. Further, success may embolden the citizen-saboteur eventually to find colleagues who can assist him in sabotage of greater dimensions.
    — from Simple Sabotage Field Manual by United States. Office of Strategic Services
  3. In short, he says every thing that may embolden me to look up, with pleasure, upon the generous author of my happiness.
    — from Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded by Samuel Richardson

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