Literary notes about suzerain (AI summary)
The term “suzerain” in literature is predominantly used to denote a superior authority to which lesser lords or territories owe allegiance, often in a feudal context. Writers deploy the word to illustrate complex hierarchical relationships—ranging from the outright declaration of overlordship, as seen when a monarch confirms privileges or issues ultimatums [1] [2], to subtler displays of dominance where personal loyalty and public humiliation underscore the demands placed upon a vassal [3] [4]. At times, it is portrayed as a remote power whose control is more nominal than absolute, inviting commentary on the fluidity of sovereignty itself [5] [6]. Overall, “suzerain” enriches narrative textures by highlighting the interplay of authority, obligation, and identity in societies bound by feudal ties [7] [8].
- As their suzerain he confirmed all the privileges of the towns, and granted them three great charters of liberties.
— from Life of Edward the Black Prince by Louise Creighton - Hence she prepared her armies and then delivered to Turkey, the nominal suzerain of Tripoli, a sudden ultimatum.
— from The Great Events by Famous Historians, Volume 21The Recent Days (1910-1914) - He declined to bend the knee before his suzerain, but gave him his oath of obedience and faith, standing at his full height.
— from The Eighteen Christian Centuries by James White - The latter was compelled to undergo public humiliation, and to hand over his territories to his suzerain on condition that his life should be spared.
— from The Great Events by Famous Historians, Volume 07 - China was suzerain over Tibet only in name, was Mr. White’s conclusion.
— from India and Tibet A history of the relations which have subsisted between the two countries from the time of Warren Hastings to 1910; with a particular account of the mission to Lhasa of 1904 by Younghusband, Francis Edward, Sir - Instead of a sovereign freedom, we obtained free internal administration, subject to the suzerain power of Her Majesty over the Republic.
— from A Century of Wrong by Jan Christiaan Smuts - The Iliad describes the life of a Greek camp; but Agamemnon, the suzerain, has under him men who are kings at home.
— from Greek Women by Mitchell Carroll - The Crusades had made the Pope not merely the spiritual but in some sort the military suzerain of Europe.
— from Curiosities of Christian History Prior to the Reformation by James Paterson
