Final answer:
Impudence is a noun that portrays the quality of being disrespectfully bold. It is a term used to describe behavior that flouts authority and lacks respect, which is totally different from concepts of obedience, brilliance, or artistic ability.
Step-by-step explanation:
Impudence is a noun that describes a state or quality of being brazen or disrespectfully bold. This term does not refer to humble obedience, intellectual brilliance, or artistic excellence, but rather to a behavior that is perceived as arrogant and lacking proper respect or courtesy. For example, one may speak of someone's impudence when they boldly challenge authority without regard for decorum or behave rudely in situations that demand a level of reverence or politeness.
Using the provided references, we can associate impudence with behavior that shows a conscious disregard for authority, such as 'the proud girl' displaying insolent behavior 'First overstepped the established law, and then-A second and worse act of impudence'. This is contrasted with virtues such as patience, respect, and self-control exemplified in the phrase 'Disciplined and calm, to await the appearance of disorder and hubbub amongst the enemy:--this is the art of retaining self-possession.'