Literary notes about level (AI summary)
The term "level" in literature is remarkably versatile, serving both a literal and figurative purpose. In many works, it denotes physical flatness or evenness, as when Strabo describes architectural structures that are "on a level with the ground" [1] or when vast plains and riverbeds are depicted as uniformly flat [2, 3]. At the same time, "level" often functions as a metaphor for equality or a baseline for quality—Plato's use suggests that reducing men to the material lowers them "to the level of the material" [4], and Durkheim speaks of beings "on the same level" to emphasize equal value in social contexts [5]. Other passages extend this usage to imply equilibrium or balance in character, as when a steady demeanor is noted [6, 7]. Thus, across varied genres and eras, "level" both measures spatial dimensions and conveys nuanced commentary on human condition and social hierarchy.
- There are paved roads, large quadrangular porticos, both on a level with the ground and with an upper story.
— from The Geography of Strabo, Volume 3 (of 3) by Strabo - Restored to vigour in a moment, I ran over the few remaining mounds of decreasing size, and found myself on the level land beyond.
— from Dracula's Guest by Bram Stoker - from Marthy's river to Milk river on the N. E. side there is a most beautifull level plain country; the soil is much more fertile here than above.
— from The Journals of Lewis and Clark, 1804-1806 by William Clark and Meriwether Lewis - The denial of the belief takes the heart out of human life; it lowers men to the level of the material.
— from Phaedo by Plato - Their relations are rather those of two beings who are on the same level and of equal value.
— from The Elementary Forms of the Religious Life by Émile Durkheim - 'His level head will be his sufficient protection,' I said to myself.
— from Life on the Mississippi by Mark Twain - Is it not a pity that she was not on my level?”
— from The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle
