Literary notes about belligerence (AI summary)
In literature, the term belligerence is frequently employed to convey a range of hostile and confrontational attitudes, from the subtle hint of defiance in a character’s tone to an overt display of aggression. Authors use it to illustrate both personal emotions and larger societal conflicts—for instance, a character’s slight yet unmistakable challenge in their speech can signal an underlying readiness for confrontation ([1], [2]), while on a broader scale, belligerence may characterize nationalistic fervor or the violent legacy of a people ([3], [4]). This versatility allows writers to capture moments of internal resentment, the poised brink of conflict, or even ironic displays of hostile composure ([5], [6]), thereby enriching the narrative by deepening our understanding of the emotional and social dynamics at play.
- "But why not?" she asked, unable to restrain a trace of belligerence from her voice.
— from Helpfully Yours by Evelyn E. Smith - "Well, really!" Marvel dropped the letter on the floor and turned to face her family with more than a suggestion of belligerence.
— from The Preliminaries, and Other Stories by Cornelia A. P. (Cornelia Atwood Pratt) Comer - In the Balkans, affluence and commerce seem only to encourage envy and belligerence and neighbourly relations are no barrier to mutual slaughter.
— from Terrorists and Freedom Fighters by Samuel Vaknin - Our Government, our courts, every department of the Government, recognized the belligerence of those Spanish colonies.
— from Charles Sumner: his complete works, volume 17 (of 20) by Charles Sumner - Muriel Harding shrewdly surveyed the scene before her, a glint of belligerence in her eyes.
— from Marjorie Dean, College Freshman by Josephine Chase - “You poor, feeble old man.” “Don't be so sure of that,” Al retorted, with a flash of belligerence.
— from When God Laughs, and Other Stories by Jack London
