Literary notes about Opprobrious (AI summary)
Literary works frequently employ the term opprobrious to highlight harsh, contemptuous language that discredits or insults its subject. In many narratives, it is used to underline the severity of social or moral denunciation—as when seafarers are spared from such insulting epithets in a celebrated nautical account [1], or when characters hurl scornful, degrading names to challenge authority or shame adversaries [2]. Classical texts also make compelling use of the word: Homer’s portrayal of bitter invective in his epic verses [3] and Milton’s forceful condemnations in his poetic style [4] both demonstrate how opprobrious speech can intensify conflict and underscore personal or collective ignominy. This strategic deployment of caustic terminology not only heightens dramatic tension but also reflects the power of language to shape reputations and incite social censure.
- There is no profanity allowed; and the men are not called by any opprobrious names, which is a great thing with sailors.
— from Two Years Before the Mast by Richard Henry Dana - He had only a very hazy idea what a coincidence was, but Dan had none at all and thought it must be something peculiarly opprobrious.
— from Rainbow Valley by L. M. (Lucy Maud) Montgomery - Stern Menelaus first the silence broke, And, inly groaning, thus opprobrious spoke: "Women of Greece!
— from The Iliad by Homer - Opprobrious, with his robe of righteousness, Arraying, covered from his Father's sight.
— from Paradise Lost by John Milton
