Literary notes about ARTFUL (AI summary)
The term “artful” frequently denotes a blend of cunning, subtlety, and expert execution in literature. Authors use it to describe not only devious or scheming behavior in characters—such as a calculating or mischievous quality in figures who manipulate circumstances or people [1][2]—but also to highlight the refined and strategic nature of actions, from the diplomatic machinations in statecraft [3][4] to even the clever and playful banter in dialogue [5][6]. In this way, “artful” captures both the persuasive power of well-honed skill and the double-edged nature of calculated ingenuity in a wide array of narrative contexts.
- I say, how the Artful would bother 'em wouldn't he?' 'Would!' cried Fagin.
— from Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens - “That is artful and deep, to be sure; but I had rather be told at once that you will not tell me.”
— from Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen - It has been sagaciously conjectured, that the artful legislator indulged the stubborn prejudices of his countrymen.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - His decent firmness was supported by an artful moderation, which contributed to the success of his designs.
— from The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire by Edward Gibbon - ‘Why not?’ inquired Mr. Pickwick. ‘My master, sir, is a very artful man.’
— from The Pickwick Papers by Charles Dickens - 1. Tsze-hsia asked, saying, 'What is the meaning of the passage— "The pretty dimples of her artful smile!
— from The Analects of Confucius (from the Chinese Classics) by Confucius
