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Literary notes about Iniquity (AI summary)

In literature, the term iniquity is often employed to evoke a sense of deep moral corruption and spiritual decay. In sacred texts, such as those found in biblical passages like [1] and [2], iniquity denotes not only the sinfulness of individual actions but also the pervasive, almost tangible force of injustice that can permeate communities. Authors extend this notion beyond religious contexts—as seen in Shakespeare’s dramatic imagery [3], or in the social critiques of Mark Twain [4] and Nathaniel Hawthorne [5]—to explore themes of societal decay and personal failing. In each instance, iniquity serves as a powerful motif, symbolizing both the internal corruption of character and the broader, often systemic, failure of justice.
  1. Who goeth in company with them that work iniquity, and walketh with wicked men? 34:9.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  2. And David said to God: I have sinned exceedingly in doing this: I beseech thee take away the iniquity of thy servant, for I have done foolishly. 21:9.
    — from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete
  3. Then is sin struck down, like an ox, and iniquity's throat cut like a calf.
    — from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
  4. Washington said with his blue lips that he would, but he said in his secret heart that he would promote no such iniquity.
    — from The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley Warner
  5. It irks me, nevertheless, that the partner of her iniquity should not, at least, stand on the scaffold by her side.
    — from The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne

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