Literary notes about Cantrip (AI summary)
Writers employ the term “cantrip” in intriguing dual roles that both ground characters and evoke magical mischief. In many narratives, “Cantrip” appears as a surname attached to aristocratic figures whose interactions illustrate subtle political and social nuances—for instance, Lord Cantrip and Lady Cantrip frequently steer conversations and decisions in high society ([1], [2], [3]). In other passages, the word assumes a more figurative tone, hinting at trickery or an enchanting influence; one author even uses it humorously to describe a wit “like a camel’s cantrip,” leaving the reader amused and perplexed simultaneously ([4], [5]). This blend of literal and metaphorical use enriches the language, lending a playful complexity to characterizations and social commentary.
- Lord Cantrip of course was not in the dark.
— from The Duke's Children by Anthony Trollope - "Lady Cantrip has asked me to be at Custins in the middle of October.
— from The Duke's Children by Anthony Trollope - He went up by the Duke of York's column, and as he passed the Athenæum he saw his chief, Lord Cantrip, standing under the portico talking to a bishop.
— from Phineas FinnThe Irish Member by Anthony Trollope - Truly my august nephew hath a wit like a camel's cantrip; it leaves one uncertain whether to laugh or to weep!
— from A Prince of Dreamers by Flora Annie Webster Steel - Methought I had recover'd of the Becket, That all was planed and bevell'd smooth again, Save from some hateful cantrip of thine own.
— from Becket and other plays by Tennyson, Alfred Tennyson, Baron
