Literary notes about munificence (AI summary)
The term "munificence" in literature is often employed to depict an extravagant or regal form of generosity, though its nuances vary with context. In Suetonius, for example, the term is used to illustrate both consistent public largesse and occasional acts of generosity by emperors [1][2]. Charles Mackay and Henry Scadding extend the concept by linking it to the rewards and recognitions one might expect from a monarch or royal benefactor [3][4]. Meanwhile, in the works of Dickens and Richard Wagner, "munificence" becomes an almost character-like quality, personifying benevolence—whether through the benevolent acts of Mr. Boffin or the King of Prussia's assistance [5][6]. Even in more vivid and colorful prose, such as in Thomas Carlyle's historical narrative and the dramatic tension within Alexandre Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo," the word attains layers of social, personal, and sometimes ironic implications, ultimately underlining the power and complexity of giving, whether voluntary or compelled [7][8].
- He displayed his munificence to all ranks of the people on various occasions.
— from The Lives of the Twelve Caesars, Complete by Suetonius - He displayed only two instances of public munificence.
— from The Lives of the Twelve Caesars, Complete by Suetonius - My discovery ought to be received and rewarded with a munificence worthy of the monarch to whom I shall attach myself.”
— from Memoirs of Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds by Charles Mackay - It is possible," he adds, "private donations might be obtained, and that it would become an object of Royal munificence."
— from Toronto of Old by Henry Scadding - Through the munificence of Mr Boffin.
— from Our Mutual Friend by Charles Dickens - Through the tireless munificence of the King of Prussia fresh and final assistance had been granted to our perennially bankrupt theatrical director.
— from My Life — Volume 1 by Richard Wagner - With rich munificence, as we often say, in a most blinkard, bespectacled, logic-chopping generation, Nature has gifted this man with an eye.
— from The French Revolution: A History by Thomas Carlyle - “You thought to escape my munificence, but it is in vain.
— from The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet