Literary notes about jeremiad (AI summary)
The term "jeremiad" has been wielded in literature as a vehicle for expressing profound disillusionment and moral denunciation. In Edgar Allan Poe’s work, for example, it is used to label a scathing critique of usury—ironically linked to Jeremy Bentham—in which the lament takes on a satirical tone [1]. Similarly, in the context of early feminist discourse, the word underscores a vehement outburst of discontent, as seen when Mrs. Hale unleashes her "Jeremiad" regarding the infidelity of a respected leader, thereby marking a personal and political indictment [2]. Together, these instances illustrate how "jeremiad" effectively captures the spirit of impassioned, often bitter, social and moral criticism.
- The one wrote a Jeremiad about usury, and was called Jeremy Bentham.
— from The Works of Edgar Allan Poe, The Raven Edition by Edgar Allan Poe - Mrs. Swisshelm's contempt is only surpassed by Mrs. Hale's "Jeremiad" over the infidelity of the noble leader of our movement.
— from History of Woman Suffrage, Volume I
