Literary notes about meek (AI summary)
Writers deploy "meek" to evoke a delicate balance of vulnerability and inner strength. In some works, a character’s "meek eyes" suggest not only physical timidity but also a quiet resignation that tugs at the reader’s empathy [1, 2]. In other contexts, particularly in religious and philosophical texts, the term transforms into an emblem of modesty and moral fortitude—one that promises divine favor and ethical superiority [3, 4]. Moreover, in narratives depicting everyday interactions, "meek" can underscore a character’s subtle obedience or subdued nature, adding layers to their personality [5].
- Her broad, healthy, red face had a look of blank idiocy and the fixed stare in her eyes was unpleasant, in spite of their meek expression.
— from The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky - and then he begins lashing the poor defenseless creature on its weeping, on its ‘meek eyes.’
— from The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoyevsky - Take up my yoke upon you, and learn of me, because I am meek, and humble of heart: And you shall find rest to your souls.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete - Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land.
— from The Bible, Douay-Rheims, Complete - But the Princess was meek, and said nothing about her maid’s rude behavior, and quietly mounted her horse again.
— from The Blue Fairy Book by Andrew Lang