Literary notes about Recusant (AI summary)
In literature, "recusant" is employed to evoke a sense of defiant nonconformity. The term can function as both an adjective and a noun, describing individuals who obstinately resist or reject prevailing norms—whether by refusing to take politically or religiously mandated oaths ([1], [2]), acting contrary to established authority ([3], [4]), or embodying a broader spirit of rebellious independence ([5], [6]). Often, authors use the term to highlight the tension between a character's personal integrity and the coercive forces of society, suggesting that such defiance brings both distinction and disadvantage, as seen in portrayals of social outcasts and dissenters ([7], [8], [9]).
- After the lapse of three months, the oath might again be tendered to them; and, if it were again refused, the recusant was guilty of high treason.
— from Critical, Historical, and Miscellaneous Essays; Vol. 1 With a Memoir and Index by Macaulay, Thomas Babington Macaulay, Baron - He could not, in conscience, take the oath required; nor would he, now that all eyes were turned upon him, remain in the land, the only recusant.
— from The Rise of the Dutch Republic — Complete (1566-74) by John Lothrop Motley - When the recusant lords appealed to the king, his reply was insolent and silly; it was intended to drive them into further opposition.
— from Studies in Irish History, 1603-1649 Being a Course of Lectures Delivered before the Irish Literary Society of London. 2d Series. - Instead, the recusant tore the letter into shreds, and flung them at his feet; defying me, Sir John, King, and all!
— from No Quarter! by Mayne Reid - There was something unmanly, recusant in it.
— from The Rainbow by D. H. Lawrence - “Why, you treasonable old scoundrel,” shouted Smellpriest, “haven't you got a rebel and recusant Popish priest in the house?
— from Willy ReillyThe Works of William Carleton, Volume One by William Carleton - A firm Tory, he was in 1688-9 committed to the Tower as a recusant, but the prosecution was waived.
— from The Works of Aphra Behn, Volume VI by Aphra Behn - The malefactors in question were recusant Roman Catholics.
— from Mary Queen of Scots, 1542-1587 - “Every Popish Recusant must be buried in Church or Church yard according to the Ecclesiastical Laws, or his Executor or Administrator forfeits £20.”
— from The Catholic World, Vol. 17, April, 1873 to September, 1873 A Monthly Magazine of General Literature and Science by Various
