Literary notes about james (AI summary)
Across a wide range of literary works, the word "James" functions both as a personal name imbued with character and as a marker of historical and social context. In biographies, heraldic records, and official documents, "James" identifies notable figures—such as Colonel James Callander, whose entry in a heraldic guide ([1]) lends historical weight, or the numerous Sir James figures who embody authority and formal conduct in narratives ([2], [3], [4]). In the realm of fiction, the name appears as a touchstone of personal identity: Jane Austen’s characters refer to and address individuals named James with a mix of endearment and reproach ([5], [6]), while John Galsworthy weaves the name into the characters' internal musings and interpersonal dialogues ([7], [8], [9]). Furthermore, "James" extends beyond a mere personal identifier, surfacing in place names and institutional settings—such as St. James’s referenced in diaries and memoirs ([10], [11])—which underscores its broader cultural and historical resonance in literature.
- (15) Colonel James Callander of Craigforth, born 1774, died ——, married (as his 3rd wife) 1776.
— from A Complete Guide to Heraldry by Arthur Charles Fox-Davies - "Oh, of course, if you like," said Sir James, pulling down his waistcoat, but unable yet to adjust his face good-humoredly.
— from Middlemarch by George Eliot - His confidence in Sir James was growing.
— from The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie - Sir James again felt Mrs. Vandemeyer’s pulse.
— from The Secret Adversary by Agatha Christie - No, James should never hear Isabella's name mentioned by her again.”
— from Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen - Not that James ever complains; but it is right to spare our horses when we can.
— from Emma by Jane Austen - 'He's fond of her, I know,' thought James. '
— from The Forsyte Saga, Volume I. by John Galsworthy - “How's that?” said James.
— from The Forsyte Saga, Volume I. by John Galsworthy - Again James eyed him suspiciously—this young man had a peculiar way of putting things: “Well!”
— from The Forsyte Saga, Volume I. by John Galsworthy - St; James’s fair was held first in the open space near St. James’s Palace, and afterwards in St. James’s Market.
— from The Diary of Samuel Pepys — Complete by Samuel Pepys - Commissioner Middleton and I to St. James’s, where with the rest of our company we attended on our usual business the Duke of York.
— from The Diary of Samuel Pepys — Complete by Samuel Pepys