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Literary notes about dutiful (AI summary)

Literary works frequently deploy "dutiful" to evoke a character’s steadfast commitment to familial, social, or patriotic responsibilities. Authors often use the term in letters or self-addressed sign-offs to underline a sense of ingrained obligation and humility, as when a character concludes correspondence with "Your ever dutiful DAUGHTER" ([1], [2]). In narratives, "dutiful" characterizes individuals who faithfully meet their societal and personal roles—be it the dutiful son who honors his parents ([3], [4]) or a devoted servant meeting both personal and professional responsibilities ([5]). At times, the word takes on a more metaphorical hue, illustrating the tension between duty and personal desire, as seen in reflections on familial disassociation ([6]). Overall, its usage underscores a timeless moral ideal that both defines character and guides conduct in literature.
  1. And now, my dearest father and mother, expect to see soon your poor daughter, with an humble and dutiful mind, returned to you: and don't fear
    — from Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded by Samuel Richardson
  2. But I am making another long letter: So will only add to it, that I shall ever be Your dutiful daughter, PAMELA ANDREWS.
    — from Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded by Samuel Richardson
  3. Your most dutiful son and servant, Pantagruel.
    — from Gargantua and Pantagruel by François Rabelais
  4. Neither was I surprised when, on the very next day, Uriah, like a dutiful son, brought his worthy mother to take possession.
    — from David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
  5. I have always endeavoured to be a dutiful servant both to you and my master."—"O
    — from Joseph Andrews, Vol. 1 by Henry Fielding
  6. If he really sought to reconcile himself like a dutiful branch, he must be forgiven for having dismembered himself from the paternal tree.
    — from Persuasion by Jane Austen

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