Literary notes about Notwithstanding (AI summary)
"Notwithstanding" functions in literature much like a bridge between conflicting ideas or circumstances, signaling that a statement remains valid despite certain adverse conditions or qualifications. Authors employ it as both an introductory adverb and an interruptive qualifier, thereby stressing that, in spite of apparent obstacles or contrasting qualities, an assertion holds true [1] [2]. It operates to underscore irony or resilience, as when a character endures danger despite clear warnings [3] or when an achievement is acknowledged despite surrounding misfortunes [4]. This versatile word enhances the narrative by acknowledging limitations or counterpoints while still affirming the primary claim [5] [6].
- Notwithstanding the recent animosities of a civil war, his death was universally lamented.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - Notwithstanding, I thrust my sword into the water to see what would come of it, and it was changed into blood.
— from Lucian's True History by of Samosata Lucian - "Is Christine in danger?" "Yes, madame," said Raoul courageously, notwithstanding the signs which Christine made to him.
— from The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux - This news made me very happy, for, notwithstanding all the doubts of her mother, I hoped for success in obtaining her hand.
— from The Memoirs of Jacques Casanova de Seingalt, 1725-1798. Complete by Giacomo Casanova - To his taste, guided by a single conversation, here was the point on which Miss Brooke would be found wanting, notwithstanding her undeniable beauty.
— from Middlemarch by George Eliot - Notwithstanding these misfortunes, Ctesiphon succeeded to Babylon and to Seleucia, as one of the great capitals of the East.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon
