Literary notes about swarthy (AI summary)
Authors use "swarthy" to evoke a sense of dark, exotic complexion that often carries with it subtle cues about a character’s temperament or origins. In some narratives the term appears to describe a robust, sun-tanned or weather-beaten appearance that enhances a character’s rugged nature, as seen in descriptions of figures with formidable presence ([1], [2]). In other literary passages it serves to establish an air of mystery or foreign allure, hinting at both physical traits and deeper, sometimes ambiguous character qualities ([3], [4], [5]). Overall, the word functions not only as a straightforward descriptor of complexion but also as a tool for enriching character portrayal and setting mood throughout a range of genres.
- ,” said Prince John, “or I will have thy swarthy hide stript off, and tanned for horse-furniture.”
— from Ivanhoe: A Romance by Walter Scott - The swarthy giant glared at him, and his hairy paw closed for an instant round the glass as though he would hurl it at the head of his companion.
— from The Valley of Fear by Arthur Conan Doyle - Edda a child brought forth: they with water sprinkled its swarthy skin, and named it Thræl.
— from The Elder Eddas of Saemund Sigfusson; and the Younger Eddas of Snorre Sturleson by Sæmundur fróði - It was a tall Arab, as swarthy as an Indian; young-say thirty years of age.
— from The Innocents Abroad by Mark Twain - The face was saturnine and swarthy, and the sensual lips seemed to be twisted with disdain.
— from The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
