Literary notes about strenuous (AI summary)
In literature, the word "strenuous" is used to evoke an image of intense, vigorous exertion—whether that be physical, mental, or emotional. Authors describe characters who engage in strenuous physical endeavors, as when individuals labor against overwhelming odds or struggle through challenging environments [1], [2], [3]. The term also emphasizes persistent mental or emotional effort in the pursuit of lofty ideals or personal transformation [4], [5], [6]. Moreover, "strenuous" is sometimes contrasted with a more relaxed or easy-going approach, highlighting the contrast between uncompromising energy and calm indifference [7], [8]. Overall, the usage of "strenuous" imbues narratives with a sense of dynamic intensity and a call for resolute dedication [9], [10].
- Capt. Shields, the most cheerful, strenuous, and popular of Company Commanders, would never fight again.
— from The Fifth Leicestershire A Record Of The 1/5th Battalion The Leicestershire Regiment, T.F., During The War, 1914-1919. by John David Hills - Two of us began to bale, and by the most strenuous efforts managed to keep afloat without throwing overboard our cargo.
— from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll - It was for her a strenuous form of exercise.
— from The Rainbow by D. H. Lawrence - It is potential, not actual, and can only be appropriated by strenuous exertion.
— from Meno by Plato - It is impossible, notwithstanding the most strenuous exertions, to raise the intelligence of the people above a certain level.
— from Democracy in America — Volume 1 by Alexis de Tocqueville - It takes a fairly strenuous course of training to attain a mental state of nonviolence.
— from Autobiography of a Yogi by Paramahansa Yogananda - The easy-going and the strenuous mood, 211 .
— from The Will to Believe, and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy by William James - The deepest difference, practically, in the moral life of man is the difference between the easy-going and the strenuous mood.
— from The Will to Believe, and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy by William James - Accordingly, as both sides arose much more strenuous then ever, Manlius also was present for the approaching contest.
— from The History of Rome, Books 01 to 08 by Livy - "Oh, God", he thought, "what a strenuous career it is that I've chosen!
— from Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
