Literary notes about indignantly (AI summary)
"Indignantly" functions as a tool for conveying a character’s heightened sense of affront or moral protest, whether through dialogue or internal reflection. Its insertion often signals that a remark or reaction comes not simply from irritation, but from a deeper, passionately articulated discontent. Authors employ it to underscore moments when characters assert themselves against perceived injustice or social expectation—as when a character retorts with a biting defense of their honor ([1], [2]) or reacts to external criticism with marked displeasure ([3], [4]). This careful use not only intensifies dialogue but also contributes to a richer characterization, deepening the reader's understanding of personal resolve and the complexities of social dynamics ([5], [6], [7]).
- ‘They’ll hardly know what she’s meant for; will they?’ inquired Mr. Snodgrass. ‘Of course they will,’ replied Mr. Winkle indignantly.
— from The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens - ‘What do you mean by this conduct, Sam?’ inquired Mr. Winkle indignantly.
— from The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens - When her image was first presented to the disciples of St. Thomas, they indignantly exclaimed, "We are Christians, not idolaters!"
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - His face flushed indignantly, and he fired this at me: “Takest me for a clerk?
— from A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court by Mark Twain - Are you of the unfortunate class? MARY DRISCOLL: (Indignantly.)
— from Ulysses by James Joyce - “But as if that is enough!” cried Evgenie, indignantly.
— from The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoyevsky - ‘You are breaking your marriage vows yourself,’ said he, indignantly rising and pacing to and fro.
— from The Tenant of Wildfell Hall by Anne Brontë
