Literary notes about Reverent (AI summary)
The term "reverent" in literature is often used to convey a profound sense of awe, respect, and devotion toward sacred figures or hallowed spaces. It appears in contexts ranging from the slow, devotional steps of a pilgrim before a deity ([1], [2]) to the solemn, almost fearful demeanor engendered by divine presence ([3], [4]). At times, it underscores a rigid formal respect or dutiful admiration, as characters bend low or offer salutes with heartfelt deference ([5], [6]), while in other contexts it highlights an attitude of reflective doubt or contrition ([7]). In each usage, "reverent" enriches the narrative by infusing the scene with a delicate balance of humility and exalted veneration.
- Then Ráma, Sítá, Lakshmaṇ bent At the king's feet, and sadly went [pg 142] Round him with slow steps reverent.
— from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki - Anne walked through it on her way to school with reverent steps and worshiping eyes, as if she trod on holy ground.
— from Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery - A reverent fear (such superstition reigns Among the rude) ev’n then possess’d the swains.
— from The Aeneid by Virgil - CHAPTER LXXIV "There is no dread that fully pleaseth God in us but reverent dread"
— from Revelations of Divine Love - Before the throne he humbly bent And honoured Ráma, reverent, Then in his hand the chouri bore, And sat where sits a councillor.
— from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki - His reverent hands once more he raised, His head he slightly bent, Upon her face he sadly gazed, And then toward Ráma went.
— from The Rámáyan of Válmíki, translated into English verse by Valmiki - In this respect I maintain an attitude of reverent doubt.
— from Emile by Jean-Jacques Rousseau