Literary notes about Iniquitous (AI summary)
In literature, “iniquitous” is employed to emphasize actions, systems, or conditions that are morally reprehensible or unjust. It is often used to describe legal decrees, political schemes, and social injustices that shock the conscience, as when harsh wartime conduct is labeled as iniquitous [1] or when unjust penal laws are denounced for their cruelty [2]. Authors also deploy the word to accentuate personal betrayals and corrupt institutions, thereby evoking readers’ sense of indignation toward wrongful practices [3], [4]. This term, imbued with strong moral judgment, serves as a critical tool in highlighting ethical failings within political and social structures [5], [6].
- Then war, whether foreign or civil, is iniquitous; it is called crime.
— from Les Misérables by Victor Hugo - This year, in consequence of the iniquitous corn laws, bread was dear, work was scarce, and the poor were destitute.
— from A Comprehensive History of Norwich by A. D. Bayne - The Americans know not this iniquitous division of duties and rights; amongst them the seducer is as much dishonored as his victim.
— from Democracy in America — Volume 2 by Alexis de Tocqueville - “It certainly is a most iniquitous affair,” said Mr. Bennet, “and nothing can clear Mr. Collins from the guilt of inheriting Longbourn.
— from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen - Yet none but an enthusiast or fanatic could condemn it as iniquitous.
— from The Conspiracy of Pontiac and the Indian War after the Conquest of Canada by Francis Parkman - Did this imply one brief, repentant relenting at the final moment, from some iniquitous plot, followed by remorseless return to it?
— from The Piazza Tales by Herman Melville
