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Literary notes about Patronize (AI summary)

Literary authors employ the word "patronize" in a variety of nuanced ways. In some contexts it signifies a supportive or endorsing action—whether that means frequenting a business, funding artistic endeavors, or offering encouragement—as when a character affirms it is the duty of sovereigns to "patronize and reward" [1] or when home institutions are deliberately supported [2]. In other contexts, however, the term takes on a more disparaging tone, used to indicate condescension or a belittling attitude toward another, as in forceful retorts like "Don't you dare to patronize me" [3] or remarks steeped in irony [4]. This dual usage reflects the word's rich versatility, allowing it to articulate both genuine backing and subtle social disparagement within literary discourse [5, 6].
  1. It is the duty of sovereigns to encourage, patronize, and reward it.
    — from Napoleon and the Queen of Prussia by L. (Luise) Mühlbach
  2. "I had intended going to Heidelberg, but felt that we loyal Americans should patronize home institutions.
    — from The Main Chance by Meredith Nicholson
  3. "Don't you dare to patronize me," he said.
    — from Instead of the Thorn: A Novel by Clara Louise Burnham
  4. It would be quite odious for me to come talking to you as if I could patronize you.
    — from The American by Henry James
  5. "IS it!" said Mr. Boythorn. "Say that he wants to patronize me," pursued Mr. Skimpole.
    — from Bleak House by Charles Dickens
  6. One of the principal objects of this institution was to publish old works and to patronize new ones.
    — from Historical View of the Languages and Literature of the Slavic Nations With a Sketch of Their Popular Poetry by Talvj

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