Literary notes about generosity (AI summary)
In literature, the word "generosity" has been employed with a multifaceted range of meanings—from an idealized expressive virtue to a subtle tool for criticism or irony. Authors such as Henry Fielding and Alexandre Dumas frequently attribute generosity to the nobility of character and chivalrous conduct ([1], [2], [3]), suggesting that an abundance of spirit often marks greatness. In contrast, writers like Thackeray and Dickens play with the term sarcastically or ambiguously, hinting that acts of generosity may harbor ulterior motives or even provoke irritation ([4], [5]). Meanwhile, philosophical and moral treatises, as seen in works by David Hume and Confucius, use the concept to underscore an intrinsic generosity of soul and character as foundational to human virtue ([6], [7]). This diversity in usage—ranging from sincere commendation to ironic reproach—demonstrates how "generosity" serves as a flexible and powerful motif in the literary canon.
- He could more easily bear the lashes of Thwackum, than the generosity of Allworthy.
— from History of Tom Jones, a Foundling by Henry Fielding - “When you please,” replied Beauchamp; “allow me only to compliment M. de Morcerf, who has given proof today of rare chivalric generosity.”
— from The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet - I thought he wanted that generosity of spirit, which is the sure foundation of all that is great and noble in human nature.
— from History of Tom Jones, a Foundling by Henry Fielding - " "Generosity be hanged!"
— from Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thackeray - It is only your generosity that has extorted my secret.
— from Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thackeray - He begged to ask what they were, and was told, 'Gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.
— from The Analects of Confucius (from the Chinese Classics) by Confucius - Their prudence, temperance, frugality, industry, assiduity, enterprize, dexterity, are celebrated, as well as their generosity and humanity.
— from A Treatise of Human Nature by David Hume