Literary notes about gesticulate (AI summary)
The word "gesticulate" in literature has been used in a variety of contexts to convey vivid bodily expression and emotion. In autobiographical narratives like Helen Keller’s, gesticulation is portrayed as an inherent, natural form of communication among deaf people [1] and as a particularly expressive indicator of deep desire [2]. In fiction, such as Chekhov’s work, the act of gesticulating is intertwined with complex emotional displays, blending physical movement with subtle psychological shifts [3]. At the same time, its usage in etiquette manuals underlines both the ideal of restrained, refined communication and the pitfalls of excessive theatricality, cautioning against overt gestures in everyday decorum [4][5] while also acknowledging its presence in more exuberant characters [6][7].
- All deaf people naturally gesticulate.
— from The Story of My Life by Helen Keller - Whenever she wished for anything very much she would gesticulate in a very expressive manner.
— from The Story of My Life by Helen Keller - Shame made him smile, gesticulate, and whisper some disconnected words.
— from The Lady with the Dog and Other Stories by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov - Indeed, a well-bred lady will never gesticulate, but converse quietly, letting the expression and animation of her features give force to her words.
— from The Ladies' Book of Etiquette, and Manual of Politeness by Florence Hartley - Never gesticulate in every day conversation, unless you wish to be mistaken for a fifth rate comedian.
— from The Gentlemen's Book of Etiquette and Manual of Politeness by Cecil B. Hartley - This is particularly the case with people who are somewhat theatrical and hence gesticulate too much.
— from Criminal Psychology: A Manual for Judges, Practitioners, and Students by Hans Gross - He began to pace the hearthrug and gesticulate, while Mr. Fotheringay sat with his arm on the table and his head on his arm, looking worried.
— from The Country of the Blind, and Other Stories by H. G. Wells
