Literary notes about proxy (AI summary)
In literature, "proxy" is employed in a multitude of ways to denote substitution, delegation, or representation. In formal and legal contexts, it often refers to an agent acting on behalf of another—as seen when individuals are married by proxy or when votes are cast by proxy ([1], [2], [3], [4]). The term also carries a metaphorical weight, capturing ideas of indirect control or influence, such as powerful figures governing not only directly but also through intermediaries ([5], [6], [7]). Moreover, writers use "proxy" to explore social and personal dynamics, where characters act or speak on another’s behalf, or where actions taken indirectly offer commentary on responsibility and authenticity ([8], [9], [10]). This diverse usage underscores how "proxy" can bridge the literal and figurative, enriching narrative detail and deepening thematic expression throughout literary works.
- He had married by proxy the daughter of Vanvitelli, who was also an architect at Naples, but he had never seen her.
— from The Memoirs of Jacques Casanova de Seingalt, 1725-1798. Complete by Giacomo Casanova - On March 11, 1810, he was married by proxy to Maria Louisa in Vienna, and the bride set out at once for Paris.
— from Napoleon: A Sketch of His Life, Character, Struggles, and Achievements by Thomas E. (Thomas Edward) Watson - On March 20, 1490, Anne and Maximilian were betrothed, and towards the end of the year the marriage was formally celebrated by proxy.
— from Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor
(Stanhope Historical Essay 1901) by R. W. (Robert William) Seton-Watson - “You know that at the business meetings of the club all members are allowed to vote by proxy if they are unable to be personally present.
— from Under Orders: The story of a young reporter by Kirk Munroe - It sometimes happens that the most potent masters in their own right are also the most potent masters by proxy.
— from The Joyful Heart by Robert Haven Schauffler - They refer to him as M. Power-Behind-the-Throne, Master-by-Proxy of State.
— from The Joyful Heart by Robert Haven Schauffler - But his genius found its talents in others, and through the talents of his personal friends expressed itself as it were by proxy.
— from Boswell's Life of Johnson by James Boswell - I had one consolation, however, [129] in knowing that I had quit being proxy for Mike Murray.
— from The Story of a Strange Career: Being the Autobiography of a Convict
An Authentic Document - Through our preacher we do much of our praying by proxy.
— from Following the Equator: A Journey Around the World by Mark Twain - But they must vote by proxy and are not eligible to any office themselves.
— from Woman and Socialism by August Bebel