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Literary notes about Curio (AI summary)

In literature, the term "curio" is remarkably versatile, functioning both as a descriptor for unusual, collectible objects and as a proper name for distinct characters. Authors employ the word to evoke the allure of oddities—a rusty object destined for a museum [1], a gilt case filled with oddities [2], and bustling shops filled with rare trinkets [3]—thus suggesting a tangible, antique charm. At the same time, "Curio" appears as a character’s name in dramatic contexts, notably in works by Shakespeare, where it designates figures who contribute to the unfolding historical and political narrative [4], [5], [6]. This dual usage enriches the literary texture by blending the material allure of eccentric artifacts with the symbolic presence of memorable personalities in both ancient and modern settings [7], [8].
  1. But, best of all, if you'll take our advice, sell the rusty thing to a museum ... as a sort of curio....'
    — from A Slav Soul, and Other Stories by A. I. (Aleksandr Ivanovich) Kuprin
  2. ary table, several huge easy rockers, some dado book shelves, and a gilt curio case, filled with oddities.
    — from Sister Carrie: A Novel by Theodore Dreiser
  3. The contents opened out in a veritable curio shop of Oriental articles.
    — from The Shogun's Daughter by Robert Ames Bennet
  4. A SEA CAPTAIN, friend to Viola VALENTINE, Gentleman attending on the Duke CURIO, Gentleman attending on the Duke SIR TOBY BELCH, Uncle of Olivia.
    — from Twelfth Night; Or, What You Will by William Shakespeare
  5. [Enter DUKE, CURIO, Lords; Musicians attending.] DUKE.
    — from Twelfth Night; Or, What You Will by William Shakespeare
  6. The DUKE'S palace Enter DUKE, VIOLA, CURIO, and OTHERS DUKE.
    — from The Complete Works of William Shakespeare by William Shakespeare
  7. Curio, a tribune of Rome and Cæsar's agent, said that it was only fair that Pompey also should give up the command of the army which he had near Rome.
    — from Historic Tales: The Romance of Reality. Vol. 11 (of 15), Roman by Charles Morris
  8. But the early death of Curio was an irreparable loss for Caesar, and indeed for Rome.
    — from The History of Rome (Volumes 1-5) by Theodor Mommsen

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