Literary notes about responsibility (AI summary)
The word "responsibility" functions as a complex and multifaceted concept in literature, shifting between the burden of duty imposed by society and the personal accountability of characters for their actions. In political discourse and philosophical works, it is presented as a necessary pillar for preserving freedom and ethical governance ([1]; [2]), while in narrative fiction it often embodies an internal struggle or moral weight, as characters grapple with what they owe to themselves and others ([3]; [4]). At times, responsibility is depicted as a duty that defines individual identity and leadership, influencing both personal relationships and broader social dynamics ([5]; [6]). This versatility allows authors to explore the tension between societal expectation and individual choice, casting responsibility both as an honorable obligation and a daunting encumbrance.
- Without this, there would be no responsibility whatever in the executive department an idea inadmissible in a free government.
— from The Federalist Papers by Alexander Hamilton and John Jay and James Madison - The veto of the Censor introduced quite a novel element of moral responsibility into the undertaking.
— from Mrs. Warren's Profession by Bernard Shaw - His ambition was not great, and he seemed to dread responsibility.
— from Personal Memoirs of U. S. Grant, Complete by Ulysses S. Grant - O Gabriel, I tremble at my responsibility, for it is terrible!"
— from Far from the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy - My father was a high officer in the United States Navy, and had a post—a post of responsibility—in that establishment at the time.
— from The Portrait of a Lady — Volume 1 by Henry James - Society is an abstract term: it is made up of individuals, and the responsibility rests with individuals.
— from History of Woman Suffrage, Volume I
