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.
- 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 - 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 - Your most dutiful son and servant, Pantagruel.
— from Gargantua and Pantagruel by François Rabelais - 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 - I have always endeavoured to be a dutiful servant both to you and my master."—"O
— from Joseph Andrews, Vol. 1 by Henry Fielding - 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