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Literary notes about proletarian (AI summary)

The term “proletarian” has been deployed in literature with a diverse range of connotations, often reflecting the tumultuous dynamics of class and ideology. In political texts such as The Communist Manifesto, the word is used appreciatively to denote a self-conscious, independent movement of the majority ([1], [2]), as well as being manipulated rhetorically by the aristocracy to galvanize support or discredit opposition ([3]). Yet, its usage is not confined solely to formal political discourse; it also appears in more personal or cultural contexts, sometimes even pejoratively. For instance, in Chekhov’s work, the label “proletarian” is employed disparagingly to underscore social and economic deficiency ([4]). Meanwhile, Nesta Helen Webster’s writings reveal a tension in its connotations, associating the term not only with political doctrine but also with controversial ideological teachings, as seen in her critique of “Proletarian” Sunday-schools ([5]) and her discussion that hints at distinguishing between what is inherently proletarian or not ([6]). This multifaceted deployment in literature underscores the term’s role both as a descriptor of collective social identity and as a tool in broader ideological battles.
  1. They do not set up any sectarian principles of their own, by which to shape and mould the proletarian movement.
    — from The Communist Manifesto by Friedrich Engels and Karl Marx
  2. The proletarian movement is the self-conscious, independent movement of the immense majority, in the interests of the immense majority.
    — from The Communist Manifesto by Friedrich Engels and Karl Marx
  3. The aristocracy, in order to rally the people to them, waved the proletarian alms-bag in front for a banner.
    — from The Communist Manifesto by Friedrich Engels and Karl Marx
  4. "By the time they are your age, young men have a secure social position, while look at you: you are a proletarian, a beggar, a burden on your father!"
    — from Project Gutenberg Compilation of Short Stories by Chekhov by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov
  5. Socialists are very anxious to disassociate these from the "Proletarian" Sunday-schools which teach atheism.
    — from Secret societies and subversive movements by Nesta Helen Webster
  6. It is here that we can detect the non-proletarian character of the movement.
    — from Secret societies and subversive movements by Nesta Helen Webster

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