Literary notes about capitulation (AI summary)
In literature, the term capitulation is employed to denote the act of yielding or surrendering, often marking a dramatic turning point in both military and personal narratives. Historical writings depict it in vivid accounts of cities and armies succumbing after a siege or conflict, as when towns fall after forceful engagements or negotiations are completed [1] [2] [3]. At times, it serves as a metaphor for more personal resignations, capturing moments when characters accept their fate with a mix of dignity and sorrow [4] [5] [6]. Whether signifying the literal signing of surrender documents or the quiet, internal acceptance of defeat, capitulation weaves into texts a rich complexity that underscores both the loss of power and the inevitable end of resistance [7] [8] [9].
- Crossing the Jura, Charles besieged the little town of Granson, and after its capitulation he hanged or drowned all the defenders.
— from The Great Events by Famous Historians, Volume 08 The Later Renaissance: from Gutenberg to the Reformation - This was after the capitulation of Limerick.—Burnet, ii. 81.
— from Ireland under the Stuarts and During the Interregnum, Vol. 3 (of 3), 1660-1690 by Richard Bagwell - 34 N. 80 W. Capitulation of English, 1781 (W. of Ind.).
— from A Literary & Historical Atlas of America by J. G. (John George) Bartholomew - The master's capitulation came with a slow, compassionate smile.
— from Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda - Every one else seem'd fill'd with gloom, Many no doubt thought of capitulation.
— from Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman - Was it my new feeling of sisterhood that so elated me—or was it, more, Mrs. Sewall's capitulation?
— from The Fifth Wheel: A Novel by Olive Higgins Prouty - “Well, is it true that it’s peace and capitulation?” asked Nesvítski.
— from War and Peace by graf Leo Tolstoy - But when my General pass'd me, As he stood in his boat and look'd toward the coming sun, I saw something different from capitulation.
— from Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman - Capitulation—that was the purport of the simple reply, guarded as it was—capitulation, unknown to herself.
— from Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy
