Literary notes about Role (AI summary)
The term “role” in literature often signifies an assigned function, expectational identity, or even a metaphorical element inherent to both character and narrative structure. It can denote the literal portrayal of a character in a play or performance, as when a debut actor is celebrated in the role of Alice [1] or when a character finds himself slipping into an unexpected role, such as that of a confessor [2]. At the same time, “role” extends beyond the stage to describe the part chance or circumstance plays in shaping events or societal functions, like the influence chance has in legal work [3] or political maneuvers [4]. Whether emphasizing a fixed societal position or the dynamic fluidity with which individuals adopt various identities, the word carries a multifaceted significance that enriches both thematic depth and character development within literary texts.
- On July 20, 1832, she made a brilliant debut in the role of Alice, in "Robert le Diable."
— from Repertory of The Comedie Humaine, Complete, A — Z by Cerfberr and Christophe - And besides, he considered it most expedient, without exhibiting too much ill-will, to follow to the end his role as confessor.
— from Twenty years after by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet - What we call chance plays a great role in our legal work.
— from Criminal Psychology: A Manual for Judges, Practitioners, and Students by Hans Gross - Finally, I wish to thank Colonel Joseph I. Greene in his triple role of editor, publisher and friend, to whom this volume owes its actual being.
— from Psychological Warfare by Paul Myron Anthony Linebarger
