Literary notes about industrious (AI summary)
In literature, the adjective "industrious" is employed to evoke a sense of relentless diligence, moral virtue, and a constructive work ethic that spans various genres and historical periods. Authors use it to depict characters and societies striving for prosperity and order, whether through the portrayal of humble laborers steadily pursuing their trade [1], the biblical ideal contrasting abundance with idleness [2], or even the commendation of loyal servants and efficient citizens in social and political treatises [3], [4]. The word not only characterizes the steadfast nature of individuals but also reflects societal values, as seen when it denotes the persistent efforts of a nation or a community to maintain productivity and order [5], [6]. This multifaceted use demonstrates how "industrious" has been an enduring emblem for positive human endeavor across literary works.
- The three young women, who appeared to be very industrious and comfortable, raised their heads to look at me, and then went on with their work.
— from David Copperfield by Charles Dickens - The thoughts of the industrious always bring forth abundance: but every sluggard is always in want.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete - my industrious servant, Ariel! Enter Ariel .
— from The Tempest by William Shakespeare - The inhabitants are most industrious and, like all industrious people, are extremely docile, amenable to reason, and easy to manage.
— from The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America by Thomas Jefferson - Under the Roman empire, the labor of an industrious and ingenious people was variously, but incessantly, employed in the service of the rich.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - A journeyman who works by the piece is likely to be industrious, because he derives a benefit from every exertion of his industry.
— from An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations by Adam Smith
